Can you sue a collection agency for harassment?

[stesne19]

I broke my lease on an apartment about 3 years ago. They sent the debt to collections and I called to make payment arrangments on the debt. They refused to work with me, and told me to pay the entire amount ($2500),which I couldn't do. They told me if I wanted to f*ck up my credit go ahead and hung up on me.Last December, they took me to court and I settled on a monthly payment amount. I have paid it faithfully. This has not stopped them from calling my family & sending nasty letters. She calls my boyfriend and talks about my debt with him and tells him how horrible I am. Then she'll hang up with him and call me at work and tell me what an asshole my boyfriend is. She refuses to call me with issues even though she has my work, cell & home phone# (debt is only in my name. She puts sticky notes on every bill I get telling me that I'm stupid, and I better pay my bill or they'll take me to court and take everything I have. I spoke to a manager and he said she has every right to do this

[Kris B]

They can't talk about it with anyone other than you and anyone else who's name is on the debt. You probably have a good case. Get this bitch out of business!

[Brandon J]

If you want to deal with this collections agency legally, you probably can't sue them (there really aren't any damages), but you may have cause to ask for a restraining order. I think it probably wouldn't be worth your time though. Send them a letter (be polite and straight forward) explaining that you are handling your debt with them according to your agreement and that you are going to request a restraining order if the calling and harassing doesn't stop. Depending on the state, they may report to a higher institution, you may want to check into that too.

[P J]

No she does not have the right but you need to start gathering proof...Then give them hell!

[aggie_87]

There are federal debt collection laws that address all these things. Legally, they cannot discuss your debt with anyone other than you - nor can they call your work. They also cannot threaten your reputation. You need to address this in writing - certified letter with return receipt - requesting they not speak to anyone other than you about the debt and that they cease the harassment. Then they legally have to stop the phone calls. Make it clear that you know your rights - refer to the "Federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act". Keep a log of every contact you have with the agency. Keep all the sticky notes and copies of every check and letter you send. In some states, you can record phone calls with only the knowledge of one person - you. If you live in one of these states, record all phone conversations - just be sure it's legal first!