Saturday, November 19, 2005

When Collectors Come Calling: Know Your Rights

Calls from a collection agency can certainly make an already unpleasant situation much worse. Here are four ways they're not allowed to harass you:

  • By calling you between the hours of 9:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m.
  • By phoning you at the office.
  • By bothering your friends or relatives to try to collect your debt.
  • By being hostile or abusive.

If you encounter any of this behavior, tell the collector you'll be reporting the agency to the Better Business Bureau. Then do it.

About the Author: Jean Chatzky is the financial editor of NBC's Today Show. She writes regular columns in Money, Time, and USA Weekend. And now she's here to help you take control of your finances! Click here to view more of Jean's money tips

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