Consumers Should Know Rights Regarding Debt Collection

Individuals who owe balances on credit cards, utilities and medical bills may begin hearing from debt collectors trying to secure the unpaid debt. These calls and letters may be frequent and frightening, but understanding their rights may help consumers better deal with collectors.

Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, consumers can, and should, ask the collector to send them documentation proving that the balance they are trying to collect is truly theirs. Like anyone else, collectors make mistakes and consumers should not be forced into paying a bill that isn't truly theirs. If the individual finds the debt is not theirs, they can dispute the charges within 30 days of receiving the verification - at which point, the collector must stop trying to obtain the charges until the situation is resolved.

Consumers who owe a balance and do not want to be contacted at work can also tell the collector not to call them at their place of employment, and collectors must comply.

Those who owe a large balance may consider consulting an attorney to explore their debt relief options. If they go this route, they may also elect to have their lawyer deal with debt collectors directly.