Debtor and Creditor FAQ

	What rights do I have against debt collectors?
	The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), enacted by the federal government, prohibits debt collectors from engaging in abusive behavior. Iowa law also prohibits certain debt collection activities by creditors. If someone is trying to collect a debt from you and does any of the things listed below we should meet to discuss the available remedies. Contact third parties, other than your attorney, a credit reporting bureau or the original creditor, except for the limited purpose of getting information about your whereabouts (collectors can also contact your spouse, your parents if you are a minor and your co-debtors unless you have asked them in writing to stop contacting you) Call you repeatedly or contact you at an unreasonable time (the law presumes that before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m. is unreasonable) Contact you at work if your employer prohibits it Use or threaten to use violence Use obscene or profane language Place telephone calls to you without identifying themselves as bill collectors Claim you owe more than you do Claim to be attorneys if they're not
	What remedies do I have against unfair debt collection practices?
	Under both federal and state law, consumers who are the victims of unfair debt collection practices can obtain damages from the creditor or debt collector. In addition, the attorney fees for pursuing these claims can be shifted to the creditor so it may cost you little or nothing to pursue violations of the fair debt collection laws.
	What kind of information do you need to determine whether there's been an unfair debt collection practice?
	Thompson Law Office asks clients to begin keeping a log of all contacts with a creditor or debt collector. The log should include copies of all correspondence, dates and times of all phone calls, and a description of what was said on the phone call or voicemail message.
	What rights do I have to correct mistakes on my credit report?
	Under federal law, creditors who report to the three credit bureaus have an obligation to make sure the information they report is accurate. If there is something on your credit report that is mistaken and is causing you to be denied for a loan or otherwise suffer adverse consequences please get in touch with Thompson Law Office immediately.