The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, or FDCPA, prohibits third-party debt collectors from contacting consumers at their place of employment "if the collector knows or has reason to know that the consumer's employer prohibits such contacts." The reasoning for this regulation is that such calls could jeopardize the consumer's job. In spite of this rule, The FTC received 8,092 complaints from consumers getting calls at work in 2008, which is virtually double the number of such complaints in 2007.
"With unemployment on the rise, calls to people's place of employment can be exceptionally upsetting," said Wyatt Johnson, President of Key Debt Services. "Fortunately, the FTC is proposing amendments to strengthen the FDCPA that should help put a stop to this practice.”
In their February 2009 workshop report, "Collecting Consumer Debt, The Challenge of Change," the FTC suggested an increase of the statutory damages from $1,000 per violation to $3,600 to adjust for inflation between 1977 and 2008. Such measures may help deter violations and provide relief for victims of abusive debt collection practices.
"Delinquencies are rising with financial hardship and consumers need more protection than ever before,” said Wyatt Johnson, President of Key Debt Services. "The last thing consumers need is to be harassed at work."
Consumers can learn more about the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act at www.ftc.gov
About Key Debt Services
Key Debt Services was founded with one goal in mind -- to help our clients become debt free.
Our proven system provides a long-term solution -- in the shortest amount of time without filing bankruptcy -- to help our clients get out of debt and stay out of debt.
Our experienced team of experts help our clients achieve their goal of eliminating debt and regaining financial independence. We have a proven track record and are here to assist our clients reach financial freedom.
Key Debt Services is an Accredited Member of TASC, The Association of Settlement Companies, and their negotiators are certified by the IAPDA.
Key Debt Services
1425 Greenway Drive, Suite 570
Irving, TX 75038
866-216-3328
For more information contact Wyatt Johnson at wyatt@keydebt.com
