How To Report a Debt Collector

Where do I report a debt collector for doing something illegal?

Report any problems you have with a debt collector to

• your state attorney general’s office
• the Federal Trade Commission
• the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

Many states have their own debt collection laws that are different from federal laws. Your state attorney general’s office can help you determine your rights under your state’s law.

 

What are my options if I think a debt collector broke the law?

Besides reporting them, you have the option to sue a collector in a state or federal court. You have to file your lawsuit within one year of when the collector broke the law. If you lost wages or had medical bills because of things the debt collector did, you have the option to sue for those damages. If you can’t prove damages, the judge can still award you up to $1,000, plus reimburse you for attorney’s fees and court costs. However, even if a court finds a debt collector violated the FDCPA, you may still owe the debt.Need help finding a lawyer to sue a collector? Check out LawHelp.org.