Rogue debt collectors -- how to fight them (CNN) {lots of info!!}

[eppur_se_muova]

By Jen Haley
CNN

(CNN) -- If you've faced a financial catastrophe -- an illness or job layoff -- and you've fallen behind on some bills, you're well aware that debt collectors are eager to collect those payments.

But some collectors go over the line, threatening to have the person arrested, making improper bank withdrawals, intimidating people and making harassing phone calls.
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Here's some expert advice on how to fight back against unethical collectors. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act requires that debt collectors treat you fairly. This doesn't mean you won't have to pay your legitimate debt. But here are some basic rights:
{see article}
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Keep in mind that some debt has an expiration date. There is a limit to how long collectors can legally collect your debt. Generally this limit - called the statute of limitations - can range from three to 15 years according to Ridout. Check with your state's attorney general's office to find out the limit in your state. You can find out who to contact at www.naag.org.
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You also have the right to sue a debt collector in state or federal court within a year of the date the law is violated. A victory will allow you to recover money for the damages you suffered plus an additional amount up to $1,000. A group may also sue a collector and for damages up to $500,000, or one percent of the collector's net worth, whichever is less.
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more: http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/personal/02/29/rogue.debt.collectors/index.html

from FTC website:
http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/credit/fdc.shtm

[Hepburn]

1. This is excellent.

Thank you for the links. I have bookmarked your thread.