Are you being contacted by a collection agency?

If you are being contacted by a collection agency for the payment of an outstanding debt, the following outlines what collection agencies are not allowed to do.

1. Threaten or start legal action without notifying you first and receiving approval from the original creditor.
2. Collect more money than you owe.
3. Call in a manner that costs you money (ex. collect call).
4. Discuss your debt with anyone else unless they have your permission.
5. Threaten or intimidate you or use abusive language.
6. Communicate with you without identifying themselves, the name of the collection agency, the name of the creditor they are collecting on behalf, and the amount owed.
7. Call so often or in such a manner that you or your family feels harassed.
8. Call before 7AM or after 9PM, Monday to Saturday.
9. Call before 1PM or after 5PM on a Sunday.
10. Call you on a holiday.
11. Contact your employer, friends, family or neighbor unless these one of these parties has acted as co-signor for the debt being collected.  However, one exception, they can contact one of these parties only if they are looking for your address or confirmation of your employment.

If you are being contacted by a collection agency who is clearly disregarding these rules, you can make a complaint through the Financial Consumer Services Commission (FCNB) by visiting their website, www.fcnb.ca or by calling 1-866-933-2222.

If you are struggling with debt and would have difficulty repaying with or without FCNB intervention, please do not hesitate to contact our office for a free consultation to discuss all of your debt relief options directly with a Licensed Insolvency Trustee.