The #1 tax Debt Collection Strategy: Harassing Robocalls
Any person who has picked up their buzzing phone with a hello and heard only a fake voice on the line, has probably experienced a robocall. Now more than ever before, debt collectors are using robocalls as the number one way to get in touch with consumers who owe money. However, how a debt collection agency uses robocalls can violate the rights of consumers. Sadly, not many consumers are aware that these robocalls can break state and federal laws. Robocalls may become so irritating, that a person starts researching how to prevent such calls from coming through. A tax debt lawyer such as Chorches Bankruptcy Law can help you understand how robocalls break state and federal laws better. Contact your local tax debt lawyer New Haven, CT for further guidance.
Why may a debt collector use harassment as a way to contact a consumer?
A debt collection agency may use a variety of not-so-pleasant strategies for luring in consumers. An agency may use harassment as a way to pressure a person enough to make a payment, if for no other reason than out of pure annoyance. A debt collector may call a consumer several times per day, and leave voicemails that are both unprofessional and untrue. For example, a debt collector robocall may leave a voicemail message that threatens the consumer will be arrested if they do not make a payment as soon as possible. In reality, this is most likely just a scare tactic to get the person to pay up.
In what other ways could I be harassed by a debt collector?
Aside from threatening phone calls, a debt collector may use the following methods to reach a consumer for overdue payments. While a debt collector may be able to contact a person regarding debts, there are rules and regulations that an agency must abide by. If you are impacted by any of the types of harassment listed below, you may want to reach out to a legal professional for advice:
- Robocalls being sent repeatedly every day, multiple times per day
- Using language or a tone of voice that is aggressive, degrading or profane
- Sending robocalls during hours to intentionally disturb the consumer (early morning, around dinner time, and/or very late at night)
- Contacting the consumer’s place of work demanding payment
- Attempting to gather more information about the consumer through a third party
- Disregarding verbal and/or written statements revoking consent to be contacted
- Ignoring verbal and/or written requests to have the debts verified
What can I do to stop these robocalls from coming in?
A consumer may have tried contacting the debt collector to cease the robocalls, either through written form or over the phone. A debt collection agency may simply ignore this request, out of assumption that a consumer does not have the time or energy to take legal action.
Is it possible to receive financial compensation for the major inconvenience?
Yes, if you decide to file a lawsuit against the debt collector for unlawful robocalls, you may be able to receive monetary compensation from the agency. How much a person is awarded, can depend on how much evidence is brought forward. A person may be paid for every time a debt collector sent a robocall illegally to the consumer’s cell phone.