Threats are the tools of the trade of debt collectors. Why not? Fear is effective to get people to do stupid things. That’s why debt collectors use it. Pay up or… Terror shuts down rational thinking and upends priorities. As a bankruptcy attorney, I meet lots of people because they’ve panicked. A debt collector has threatened […]
How Many Collection Calls Is Too Many
The CFPB has answered the burning question of how many collection calls is too many. Starting November 30, 2021, seven calls within seven consecutive days is the limit. More collection calls than that constitutes prohibited harassing conduct. And harassing conduct violates the Fair Debt Collection Act. Remember that the FDCPA governs the conduct of debt […]
Your Tax Refund In The Crosshairs In Debt Collecting Season
Who knew that there was a season for debt collecting? My friend and colleague attorney Mike Cardoza does. See what he says. The beginning of the year through about the end of March is the big season for debt collection! Why? Because collectors are pretty sure that you have some money in your pocket – […]
Can You Spot The Signs Of A Collection Scam
It’s pretty scary when a $300 payday loan turns into an investigation by the Federal Crimes Bureau. Not only was the recipient of the collection letter below being “investigated for crimes”, his Social Security number would be suspended, and a court case initiated against him immediately. At great cost and embarrassment. Unless, of course, he sent the […]
5 Things To Do When You Have Been Sued
The ring on the doorbell was a process server. Bingo! You’ve been sued in a California court. Now what? Breathe deeply and work your way through this five step check list. Then I’ll suggest some options. Scout the territory 1. Look at the caption: It identifies the parties to the suit. It’s right below the […]
California Consumers Have Powerful Debt Collection Rights
California outdoes the rest of the country in its debt collection rights for consumers. Debt collectors have noticed the growing understanding of debtors about their rights to fair debt collection. And they aren’t happy. The Federal law Fair Debt Collection Practices Act regulates the conduct of third party collectors. Those protections apply everywhere and more […]
Pay Your Debts Or Go To Jail?
What would you do if you got a tip there was an arrest warrant out because you hadn’t paid one of your bills? The right answer is “laugh”. In the US we don’t arrest people for owing money they can’t pay. Yet scammers are out in force, counting on you having slept through civics. Whether […]
Disarm The Debt Collector: Understanding The Weapons of Debt Collection
You can stop a debt collector cold, wherever you live, using federal law. It doesn’t take a lawyer, a court, or an enforcer. That’s because the weapons of a debt collector are fear, shame, and annoyance. The weapon delivery system is communication. Those weapons don’t have to be any more threatening than a plastic toy […]
What Is Really Scary About Debt Collectors
When I tell a client to stop paying credit cards, they look at me as though I’d suggested they jump into shark infested waters. “But they’ll start calling me”, they wail. “I’ll be sent to collection“. In their mind, “collection” is a real place, with manacles dangling, barred windows, and water dripping down moldy dungeon walls. Turns […]
