Getting a call from a debt collector is stressful enough, but when they start calling your workplace, the situation can quickly become overwhelming. You might worry about your employer finding out about your financial struggles or even fear losing your job. So, is it even legal for debt collectors to contact you at work? More importantly, what can you do to make it stop?
If you're dealing with aggressive debt collectors, you're not alone. Many people face similar challenges, and the good news is that you have rights. In this guide, we’ll break down why debt collectors call workplaces, whether it’s legal, what your rights are under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), and how to stop them from disrupting your job. If the pressure is too much, we’ll also explore how a bankruptcy attorney can help you find relief and regain control of your finances.
Why Are Debt Collectors Contacting Your Workplace?
Debt collectors don’t randomly decide to call your job; they usually have specific reasons for doing so. Understanding why they’re reaching out can help you respond appropriately and protect yourself.
One common reason is that they’re trying to verify your employment. If they’re unable to reach you at home or on your cell phone, they might resort to calling your workplace to confirm that you still work there and have a steady income.
Another reason could be that they’re trying to pressure you into paying. Debt collectors know that calling your job can be embarrassing, and they might hope that by doing so, you’ll feel compelled to resolve the debt quickly—sometimes even at the expense of your other financial obligations.
Finally, some debt collectors might claim they’re calling to reach you about a legal matter, suggesting that a lawsuit or wage garnishment is on the horizon. While some debt-related lawsuits are legitimate, many of these calls are scare tactics designed to push you into immediate payment.
Regardless of their reasoning, you don’t have to put up with collectors disrupting your workplace.
Is It Legal for Debt Collectors to Call You at Work?
The short answer is: it depends. Debt collectors are allowed to contact you at work, but there are strict rules about what they can and cannot do.
Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), a debt collector cannot contact you at work if they know (or have reason to know) that your employer does not allow personal calls. If your company has a policy against these types of calls, you can tell the collector, and they are legally required to stop.
Additionally, debt collectors cannot reveal details about your debt to your employer, coworkers, or anyone else. They’re only allowed to ask for information that helps them contact you—such as verifying your phone number or work address—but they cannot discuss your debt with your boss or HR department.
In some cases, however, there are exceptions. If a creditor has sued you and obtained a court order for wage garnishment, they may contact your employer for processing the garnishment. This is a legal process and not considered harassment, but even then, there are limits on how much they can take from your paycheck.
If a debt collector is repeatedly calling your job despite being told not to, they may be violating federal law—and you have options to stop them.
What Are Your Rights Under the FDCPA?
The FDCPA is a federal law that protects consumers from abusive debt collection practices. Here’s how it helps you when dealing with debt collectors at work:
- You have the right to request they stop calling your job. If a collector calls your workplace, you can tell them that your employer does not allow such calls. They are legally required to stop.
- Debt collectors cannot harass or threaten you. They cannot use abusive language, make false threats of legal action, or pressure you into paying an amount you don’t owe.
- They cannot discuss your debt with your employer. Debt collectors are prohibited from sharing details of your debt with your boss, HR department, or coworkers.
- You have the right to request written verification of your debt. If you’re unsure whether a debt is valid, you can request a written notice detailing what you owe and who you owe it to.
- You can take legal action if they violate the law. If a collector continues to call your job after being told not to, you may have grounds to file a complaint or even sue them for damages.
Knowing your rights is the first step in protecting yourself from workplace harassment. But what if the calls don’t stop? There are additional steps you can take to put an end to the stress.
How to Stop Debt Collectors from Harassing You at Work
If a debt collector is repeatedly calling your job, you don’t have to tolerate it. There are clear steps you can take to protect yourself and make the calls stop.
1. Tell Them Your Employer Prohibits Such Calls
Under the FDCPA, once you inform a collector that your workplace does not allow personal calls, they must stop. Be firm and direct when stating this.
2. Send a Written Cease-and-Desist Letter
You can send the collector a written request demanding that they stop all contact with you, including at work. Make sure to send it via certified mail so you have proof of your request.
3. Keep a Record of All Calls
If the harassment continues, document every call—date, time, and what was said. This evidence can be crucial if you decide to file a complaint or take legal action.
4. File a Complaint with the CFPB or FTC
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) both enforce debt collection laws. If a collector ignores your requests, you can file a complaint with these agencies.
5. Consider Legal Action or Bankruptcy for Serious Cases
If a collector refuses to comply with the law, you may be able to sue them for damages. In some cases, filing for bankruptcy can be the best way to stop all collection efforts, including wage garnishments and lawsuits.
How a Bankruptcy Attorney Can Help Protect You
If debt collectors are relentlessly calling your job and you’re struggling to keep up with payments, it may be time to consider bankruptcy as a financial reset. A bankruptcy attorney from Buchalter & Pelphrey can help you:
- Stop all creditor harassment immediately—Once you file for bankruptcy, the automatic stay goes into effect, preventing creditors from calling you, suing you, or garnishing your wages.
- Determine the best type of bankruptcy for your situation—Whether it’s Chapter 7 (which eliminates most unsecured debts) or Chapter 13 (which allows for a structured repayment plan), we can guide you toward the best option.
- Protect your job and wages—If you’re facing wage garnishment, bankruptcy can help stop it, allowing you to keep more of your paycheck.
- Avoid costly mistakes—The bankruptcy process can be complex, but we ensure you meet all requirements and deadlines.
Debt collectors calling your job can feel invasive and overwhelming, but you have rights and options. By understanding what’s legal, asserting your rights under the FDCPA, and considering whether bankruptcy is a smart move for your situation, you can take back control. Relief is possible—you just have to take the first step.
If you’re tired of the stress and harassment, speaking with us can give you a clear path forward. Call us at (321) 320-6088 or fill out our online form to book a consultation.