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Most people don’t expect their phone to turn into a source of anxiety, but that’s exactly what happens when debt collectors cross the line. From unexpected calls to veiled threats, some collectors forget there are laws that keep their behavior in check.

You have more rights than you might think—and if you’re a service member, even more protection applies.

What exactly are the things debt collectors can’t do legally? Stick around, we’re breaking down the biggest violations and showing you how to protect yourself from harassment while staying firmly within your rights.

6 Things Debt Collectors Can’t Legally Do

1. Harass or Abuse Consumers

Debt collectors don’t have the freedom to call you endlessly or speak to you like they’re starring in a courtroom drama. Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, harassment by collectors is strictly off-limits. That means no threats, no foul language, and no ringing your phone nonstop.

If you’ve ever been contacted three times in one morning or received a voicemail laced with insults, that’s not persistence—it’s illegal. These abusive behaviors fall outside the legal limits set by federal law.

Keep track of every call, save voicemails, and write down what was said.

2. Pursue Legal Action Without Verifying Military Status

Filing a lawsuit without checking if someone is on active duty isn’t just careless—it’s a violation of federal law. The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act protects military personnel by pausing legal proceedings and blocking default judgments while they serve.

That’s why debt collectors must verify military status before pursuing legal action using the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act website to stay compliant and avoid illegal debt recovery.

3. Contact Third Parties Without Consent

No one wants their boss or neighbor to know they’re behind on a bill. That’s exactly why debt collection laws make it illegal for collectors to reach out to anyone other than you or your legal representative without your say-so.

Sharing your debt details with coworkers or family without consent crosses a serious line. These third-party contact rules are in place to protect your privacy and shield you from embarrassment or gossip.

If a collector starts dragging others into your business, let them know it’s not allowed. And if they don’t stop, it’s time to file a formal complaint.

4. Threaten to Take Legal Action Without Intent to Do So

It’s one thing to collect a debt—it’s another to scare someone into paying with false threats. When a collector claims they’re going to sue you or garnish your wages without any legal intent, that’s more than just pushy behavior.

These kinds of deceptive practices are not allowed under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. You have every right to ask for proof in writing if a collector threatens legal action.

Talk to a legal expert and make sure you take the right steps to protect your rights.

5. Threaten to Garnish Wages or Seize Property Without a Court Order

Being behind on payments doesn’t give collectors the power to reach into your paycheck or take your belongings. Without a court’s decision, those threats carry no legal weight and serve only to pressure you unfairly.

The law makes it clear that no one can touch your wages or assets without a proper judgment. Any attempt to scare you with talk of garnishment or property seizure before that happens is out of line.

Stay calm and ask for proof in writing. No documentation means no action, and pushing forward without it is a serious breach worth reporting to the proper authorities.

6. Call Consumers at Inconvenient Times or Places

No one wants to deal with debt collection calls during dinner or while trying to meet a deadline at work. The law agrees with you. Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, collectors are required to respect time and place when reaching out.

Calls made before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m. are off-limits. The same goes for contacting you at your job if it’s not allowed by your employer. Reaching out at these times violates collection call restrictions and your right to privacy.

Conclusion

Knowing what debt collectors can’t do legally puts the power back in your hands. From avoiding harassment to ensuring military protections are respected, your rights are backed by law, not left to interpretation.

Whether you’re managing a debt or supporting someone who is, staying informed is your strongest defense. And when collectors cross the line, you don’t have to stay silent.