The goal: stop the stress and protect your rights
Debt collectors are allowed to contact you, but they are not allowed to harass, threaten, or mislead you. If you’re getting repeated calls, aggressive voicemails, or confusing letters, the most helpful thing you can do is create a clean record.
This guide focuses on practical steps: what to document, how to communicate, and how to avoid mistakes that can make things worse.
FDCPA basics (in plain English)
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) is a federal law that restricts how third-party debt collectors can collect consumer debts.
It may apply when:
- The collector is collecting a personal/household debt
- The collector is a third-party agency or debt buyer (not always the original creditor)
State laws may provide additional protections.
What to document (your evidence checklist)
1) Call log
Create a simple log with:
- Date/time of each call
- Phone number used
- Collector name/company (if known)
- What was said (short summary)
- Whether they left a voicemail
2) Voicemails and recordings
- Save voicemails.
- Recording calls can be powerful, but recording laws vary by state. If you’re unsure, do not record—stick to written documentation and voicemails.
3) Letters and envelopes
Keep:
- The letter itself
- The envelope (postmark can matter)
- Any inserts
Take photos/scans and store them in a folder.
4) Text messages and emails
Screenshot:
- The full message thread
- The phone number/email address
- The date/time stamp
5) Credit report entries
If the debt is being reported, save:
- Screenshots of the tradeline
- Dates it appeared
- Any changes after disputes
What to say (and what not to say)
What to say
- “Please send me written validation of the debt.”
- “Please communicate with me in writing.”
- “I’m requesting you stop calling my workplace.”
What not to say
- Don’t guess about the debt (“I think I owe it”).
- Don’t provide sensitive information (SSN, bank info) to an unknown caller.
- Don’t get pulled into arguments.
A simple written request you can send
You can send a short letter (certified mail is often helpful) that:
- Requests validation
- Requests written-only communication
- Disputes the debt if appropriate
Keep a copy of what you send and proof of mailing.
Red flags that may violate the law
- Threats of arrest or criminal charges
- Calling repeatedly to annoy or harass
- Using obscene or abusive language
- Misrepresenting the amount owed
- Pretending to be a lawyer or government agency
- Discussing your debt with third parties (with limited exceptions)
If you’re also being sued
A lawsuit is different from collection calls. Do not ignore court papers. If you’re served, calendar your response deadline immediately.
If you’re dealing with aggressive collection tactics, we can review your call logs and letters and explain whether the conduct may violate consumer protection laws. Contact Ginsburg Law Group, PC for a free evaluation.
CLICK HERE for a case assessment.
