It is common for many of us to have various levels of debt, such as credit cards, mortgages, car payments, etc. For many individuals, losing a job or even missing a single paycheck, could significantly impact their ability to pay their monthly debt payments. With the current government shutdown, it is a scary time for federal employees and federal contractors who are in the unenviable position of not currently receiving a paycheck. Since it is unknown as to when federal workers and contractors may receive their next paycheck, individuals who have debts may be unsure how to handle creditors in those situations. If you are dealing with any debt, it is important to understand your rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA).
Many people do not realize they have rights against their creditors that are listed in the FDCPA. The FDCPA was created in 1977 to eliminate abusive debt collection practices by debt collectors. This act imposes standards that debt collectors must follow in order to protect consumers from abuse. If the act is violated by debt collectors, there will be consequences for their actions.
Some common violations of the act include: creditors call before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m., calling a consumer's place of employment, communicating with third parties other than the debtor, communicating with a consumer who is represented by an attorney, communicating after a request to cease communication and the use of threats of violence or profane language.
If during this government shutdown, you are a federal worker or contractor dealing with creditors, we would be happy to help you with your questions. If you are dealing with debt problems in general, please feel free to reach out to our office.
No Comments
Leave a comment