The information contained here does not create an attorney-client relationship. If you have questions about collection practices, you should contact me or another attorney. While not directly related to bankruptcy, the task of dealing with creditors is often necessary for those with debt problems. After a debtor is about six weeks late with a payment, most creditors will begin to call. Initially the calls are mere courteous reminders but tend to deteriorate from there.
Collectors often make threats about lawsuits and ruining a debtor's credit report.
Alternatively, some collectors use the technique of befriending the debtor and trying to help them out . Collector calls can be very disturbing to a debtor and the laws below are designed to protect the debtor from harassment. If you had already planned to pay part or all of the bill then explain when that will happen but do not be pressured to alter your financial strategy based on a phone call. If the call is to your work then explain that your employer does not permit you to take collection calls at work if that is the case. Collectors like to engage debtors in lengthy conversations.