What constitutes debt collector harassment?

Under the FDCPA, harassment includes repeated calls intended to annoy or abuse, threats of violence, use of profane language, and publishing consumer debt information. Regulation F also presumes a violation if a collector calls more than 7 times in 7 days regarding a single debt.

Where can I report debt collector harassment?

You can file complaints with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and your state attorney general. If you believe your rights have been violated, consider consulting a licensed attorney in your state.

Know Your Rights

Debt Collector Harassment

Understand what constitutes illegal debt collection harassment and the steps you can take to protect yourself.

Definition

What Is Debt Collector Harassment?

Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), debt collectors are prohibited from engaging in conduct that harasses, oppresses, or abuses any person in connection with the collection of a debt.

Section 1692d of the FDCPA specifically addresses harassment and abuse, and Regulation F (implemented by the CFPB in 2021) added further guidelines including call frequency limits.

Consumer reviewing debt collection documents

Regulation F

7 calls in 7 days = violation

Illegal Behavior

Examples of Illegal Harassment

These behaviors by debt collectors are prohibited under federal law.

Excessive Calling

Calling more than 7 times within 7 days about a single debt, or calling within 7 days of having a phone conversation about that debt.

Threats & Intimidation

Threatening violence, criminal prosecution, arrest, wage garnishment without court judgment, or any action they cannot legally take.

Abusive Language

Using obscene, profane, or abusive language. Any communication designed to humiliate or belittle you may constitute a violation.

Contacting Third Parties

Discussing your debt with neighbors, coworkers, friends, or extended family. They may only contact third parties once to obtain your location.

Calling at Improper Times

Contacting you before 8:00 AM or after 9:00 PM in your local time zone unless you have given permission.

Workplace Calls

Contacting you at your place of employment if they know or have reason to know that your employer prohibits such communications.

Take Action

How to Document Harassment

Documentation is critical if you believe a debt collector is harassing you.

Call logs — dates, times, phone numbers, duration, and what was said

Voicemails — save and do not delete them

Written communications — save all letters, emails, and texts

Witness information — if anyone else heard threatening calls

Emotional and financial impact — note how harassment has affected your life

Report It

Where to Report Debt Collector Harassment

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)

consumerfinance.gov/complaint

The primary federal agency for consumer financial complaints.

Federal Trade Commission (FTC)

ReportFraud.ftc.gov

Reports unfair business practices to federal authorities.

Your state attorney general

Most states have consumer protection divisions that handle these complaints.

Better Business Bureau (BBB)

While not a government agency, complaints may prompt a response from the collector.

Legal Remedies

Potential FDCPA Remedies

Consumers who experience harassment may be entitled to:

Up to $1,000

Statutory damages per lawsuit

Actual damages

For financial and emotional harm

Attorney's fees

Plus court costs

Many consumer protection attorneys handle FDCPA cases on a contingency basis.

Experiencing Harassment from Debt Collectors?

Document the harassment and request a free information review. Learn about your rights and what steps you can take.

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Not legal advice. Not a law firm. Disclaimer