Dealing With Debt Collectors

When I was younger, I got in to a bind with my bills and didn't know how to deal with it. It caused me so much grief and anxiety, I was to the point that I would not answer my phone. I even left a job that I loved just so the bill collectors would not call me a work any more. No one wants to find themselves in that type of situation. What I didn't know and what everyone should know is that most bill collectors are not as hard to deal with as you might think. They want their money, so if you can show them that you're honestly trying to make that happen, then more than likely you can work something out.

It pays to familiarize yourself with the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, which protects consumers from unscrupulous collection practices. If you feel that your rights have been violated, you can report the incident to the Federal Trade Commission or file a lawsuit to collect damages. Be honest with the bill collector. Let them know if circumstances beyond your control have caused you to fall behind or stop making payments on your bills. They will still try to collect the debt, but it could buy you some time and it may make it more likely that they will work with you to resolve the situation in a way that is suitable to both parties. You know how much you can afford to pay each month, so don't let them convince you to pay more. You still have to have a place to live and food on the table. If they are insistent on your paying more, you may need to seek legal counsel. Every time you speak with the collection agents, take notes! Write down highlights from the conversation along with the date and time of the call. These notes may prove helpful if the collector contradicts himself on future calls, or if you end up filing a complaint or lawsuit. When you reach an agreement with a collector, make sure you stick to it. As long as you keep up your end of the bargain, the collection agency can make no further efforts. If for any reason you are not able to pay as agreed, call them immediately and let them know when you will be able to pay.

No one likes to deal with a collection agency, but if you are honest and reasonable, it's rarely as bad as you think it will be. In most cases, you can work out an agreement, get your debt paid and get on with your life.