Those who owe money should expect someone will come around asking for it sooner or later. But, most don’t realize that there are laws about when and how collection efforts can be made.
If you find yourself in this position and are feeling harassed by creditors, you have the power to make it stop. Here’s how.
Collection effort guidelines
Debt collectors are only allowed to contact debtors in Georgia under one of the following conditions:
- The collection effort must be made in person directly with the debtor
- Indirect collection efforts can only be made by mail, telephone, telegram, email or fax
- The collection effort cannot be made before 8 am or after 9 pm unless permission is expressed under a court order
- Collection efforts cannot be made while you are at work
- Debtors who are represented by an attorney cannot be contacted directly by creditors
- Creditors cannot reveal the amount you owe to outstanding parties
How to stop collection efforts
If you are being unlawfully harassed by a creditor, there are a couple of ways you can make it stop. One option is to use contact an attorney for help. The FDCPA explicitly forbids debt collector from contacting debtors who are represented by an attorney.
Another way to stop collection efforts or a lawsuit brought by a creditor is to file for bankruptcy. Depending on your qualifications, bankruptcy may completely absolve you of your debts or put you on a repayment plan.
