Constant calls from debt collectors can feel overwhelming. Whether it’s your cell phone, home phone, or even your workplace, the pressure can make daily life stressful. But you do have rights. Debt collectors must follow federal laws that protect you from harassment and unfair practices.
This guide explains when debt collectors are allowed to call, what actions cross the line into harassment, and the steps you can take to regain control of the situation.
What Times Can Debt Collectors Call You?
Debt collectors are not allowed to call at any hour of the day. By law, they can only contact you between 8 AM and 9 PM in your local time zone. Calls outside these hours are considered harassment unless you have given them explicit permission to reach you then.
If a debt collector repeatedly calls you before 8 AM or after 9 PM, you have grounds to file a complaint. Two federal agencies enforce these rules:
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB): Accepts complaints about debt collectors who break the law.
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Monitors and enforces fair debt collection practices.
Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), you can sue a debt collector who violates these rules. You have one year from the date of the violation to file a lawsuit, and you may be awarded up to $1,000 plus attorney’s fees.
What Counts as Harassment by Debt Collectors
Debt collectors are allowed to contact you, but they cannot cross into harassment. Harassment includes repeated or aggressive behavior that goes beyond normal communication about a debt. Keeping detailed records of calls, texts, emails, or letters can help if you need to prove harassment later.
Here are common examples of debt collector harassment:
- Threatening physical harm or criminal charges if you do not pay
- Using obscene or offensive language
- Calling several times in a single day or hanging up without speaking
- Pretending to be an attorney, government official, or police officer
- Making false statements about how much you owe or what will happen if you do not pay
If you recognize these behaviors, you may be dealing with harassment, not just collection attempts.
How to Stop Debt Collectors From Calling You
If the constant calls are too stressful, you can make debt collectors stop contacting you by sending a cease and desist letter. This is a written request that legally requires them to stop calling.
You do not need an attorney to write this letter. Keep it short and clear. Include your name, account number, and the debt collection agency’s information. State that you want all phone calls to stop and that future communication should only be in writing. Always send the letter by certified mail with return receipt so you have proof they received it.
Once the agency gets your letter, they may only contact you one more time to confirm they received your request or to notify you of legal action, such as a lawsuit.
Pros & Cons of Stopping Debt Collection Calls
Before you send a cease and desist letter, it’s important to think about the benefits and drawbacks. Stopping the calls can bring peace of mind, but it may also change how the debt collector handles your account.
Pros
- Reduced stress: You no longer deal with constant phone calls.
- Clear boundaries: Communication happens only in writing, leaving a paper trail.
- Legal protection: If they continue calling, you can prove they broke the law.
Cons
- Limited information: You may miss updates about the debt or settlement options.
- Higher risk of legal action: Collectors may decide to sue instead of trying to call.
- Debt transfer: They may sell your debt to another collection agency that starts contacting you again.
Should You Allow Debt Collectors to Keep Calling?
In some cases, letting debt collectors call may be helpful, especially if you plan to settle the debt. Phone calls give you the chance to ask questions, learn about settlement options, or negotiate a payoff amount.
Debt collectors often purchase debt for far less than what you owe. This gives you room to negotiate. For example, you might offer a lump sum that is lower than the full balance in exchange for closing the account. You can also request that the collection be removed from your credit report once the debt is paid, known as a pay-for-delete agreement.
While they are not required to agree, many collectors will consider it if it means they get paid. If you do allow calls, set boundaries by telling them not to call you at work or on certain numbers. This way, you control the communication without cutting it off completely.
Negotiating With Debt Collectors to Settle Debt
If you know the debt is valid and you want to resolve it, negotiation can be a smart move. Since most debt collectors buy debts for a fraction of what is owed, they are often open to settling for less.
When you negotiate, be clear about what you can afford. Offer a lump sum or a structured payment plan. Always get the agreement in writing before sending any money.
You can also ask for a pay-for-delete. This means the collector agrees to remove the collection account from your credit report once the debt is paid. They are not legally required to accept this, but many collectors will if it ensures they receive payment. Even if they refuse, settling the debt will prevent further collection activity and may improve your credit over time.
Tips to Reduce Stress From Debt Collection Calls
Dealing with debt collectors can be exhausting, but you can take steps to limit their impact on your daily life. Setting boundaries and controlling how you communicate helps you stay in control.
Here are some practical strategies:
- Screen calls: Let unknown numbers go to voicemail and review messages later.
- Request written communication: Ask the collector to email or mail you instead of calling.
- Restrict certain numbers: Tell them not to contact you at work or other places you find intrusive.
- Keep records: Save all voicemails, texts, and letters in case you need proof of harassment.
- Focus on timing: Set aside specific times to review mail or emails so debt issues do not take over your day.
Final Thoughts
Constant calls from debt collectors can make you feel trapped, but you are not powerless. You have the right to limit how they contact you, stop harassment, and even negotiate better terms for repayment.
If you want the calls to stop, send a cease and desist letter and keep all communication in writing. If you prefer to keep the line open for negotiation, set clear boundaries and look for settlement opportunities. Either way, knowing your rights helps you stay in control.
The key is to decide what approach works best for you. Protect your peace of mind, weigh your options carefully, and take steps that move you closer to resolving the debt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to make the debt collector stop calling me completely?
It’s possible to request that the debt collector stop contacting you completely. However, they may be legally permitted to continue contacting you if they need to notify you of certain actions, such as a lawsuit.
Can debt collectors call my employer or family?
Debt collectors are allowed to contact your employer or family only to get your contact information, but they cannot discuss your debt with them. If you tell a collector not to call your workplace, they must stop. Repeated calls to family or coworkers about your debt are considered harassment and violate federal law.
Will stopping debt collection calls stop the debt itself?
Stopping calls does not erase the debt. Even if you send a cease and desist letter, the balance you owe still exists. The collector may choose other methods, such as sending letters or filing a lawsuit, to collect the debt.
What should I do if a debt collector keeps calling after I sent a cease and desist letter?
If a collector continues to call after receiving your cease and desist letter, they may be breaking the law. Keep a record of every call and file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau or the Federal Trade Commission. You may also want to speak with an attorney about taking legal action.
