Victims of creditor harassment can fight back

by | Oct 10, 2018 | Uncategorized

One of the most unpleasant effects of owning a significant amount of debt is the fact that debt collectors and creditors will contact you to attempt to collect on what you owe. This is a standard practice, but there are times when creditors may step over the line and actually infringe on your rights. If you are a victim of creditor harassment, you have the right to fight back.

According to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, there are limits to what creditors can do to attempt to collect on owed balances. If you believe that what you are experiencing is harassment, there are ways you can make it stop. You have the right to protect your interests and enact the automatic stay through filing for bankruptcy.

How do you know if you are a victim? 

Consumers do not have to stand for unfair and inappropriate treatment from debt collectors, but it is beneficial for you to first understand if what you are experiencing counts as harassment. Some of the most common types of creditor harassment include the following: 

  • Attempting to talk to you about your debt in unusual places or at unusual times of the day
  • Continuing to call you at work, even after asking they stop doing so
  • Talking to other people or third parties about your debt
  • Continuing to call after you secure legal representation
  • Verbally harassing you, threatening you or using abusive language
  • Making false statements to you or failing to identify themselves as a debt collector

There are other behaviors that could also qualify as creditor harassment. You may feel helpless to make this type of treatment stop, but one of the first steps you can take is to seek help regarding your potential legal options. 

Deal with your debt once and for all

One way to way to deal with your debt and stop all contact from creditors is to file for bankruptcy protection. This will immediately stop the phone calls, letters and other attempts to collect on debt. Bankruptcy protection also provides you with the opportunity to confront your debt in an organized and efficient manner.

You may be overwhelmed with debt, but there is a way out. Texas consumers often find that consumer bankruptcy allows them to pursue the fresh start they need and seek a better financial future. Before you file for bankruptcy or make other important decisions that could impact your financial future, you will find it beneficial to speak with an experienced attorney about your options.