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Dealing with Debt Collectors (view source)
Revision as of 01:00, 7 November 2023
, 01:00, 7 November 2023→Work out the problem
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==Work out the problem== | ==Work out the problem== | ||
There are steps you can take to work out a problem with a debt collector. | There are steps you can take to work out a problem with a debt collector. | ||
===Step 1. Keep a record of all communications=== | |||
If you run into problems with a debt collector, start with creating a paper trail. Keep records of all your correspondence. This includes anything they say to you — or anyone else — about the debt you owe. | If you run into problems with a debt collector, start with creating a paper trail. Keep records of all your correspondence. This includes anything they say to you — or anyone else — about the debt you owe. | ||
Record the date, time, and content of any phone calls or messages you receive. | Record the date, time, and content of any phone calls or messages you receive. | ||
===Step 2. Research the debt collector=== | |||
Confirm the identity of the debt collector. Use caller ID or tracing if you have to. | Confirm the identity of the debt collector. Use caller ID or tracing if you have to. | ||
If it’s a '''collection agent''', they must be licensed by Consumer Protection BC. You can use the licence search on their website to find out if the agent is properly licensed. [https://www.consumerprotectionbc.ca/check-a-licence-search/ Visit the Consumer Protection BC website]. | If it’s a '''collection agent''', they must be licensed by Consumer Protection BC. You can use the licence search on their website to find out if the agent is properly licensed. [https://www.consumerprotectionbc.ca/check-a-licence-search/ Visit the Consumer Protection BC website]. | ||
Step 3. Contact the debt collector | |||
First, a caution: If you’re being asked to pay a debt and you think the limitation period may have expired, seek legal advice ''before'' contacting the debt collector. If you contact the collector, you may restart the limitation period. ([https://www.peopleslawschool.ca/ | ===Step 3. Contact the debt collector=== | ||
First, a caution: If you’re being asked to pay a debt and you think the limitation period may have expired, seek legal advice ''before'' contacting the debt collector. If you contact the collector, you may restart the limitation period. ([https://www.peopleslawschool.ca/options-legal-help/ There are options for free or low-cost legal advice].) | |||
Tell the debt collector you want to see written notice of the debt, if you haven’t gotten it already. (They’re legally required to wait five days after giving you written notice before they call you.) | Tell the debt collector you want to see written notice of the debt, if you haven’t gotten it already. (They’re legally required to wait five days after giving you written notice before they call you.) | ||
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Also, consider sending a written letter outlining your proposal for paying back the debt. The collector may agree to change the terms to make it easier for you. | Also, consider sending a written letter outlining your proposal for paying back the debt. The collector may agree to change the terms to make it easier for you. | ||
===Step 4. Complain to Consumer Protection BC=== | |||
If the harassment continues, you can make a complaint to Consumer Protection BC. They oversee debt collectors and license collection agents in the province. | If the harassment continues, you can make a complaint to Consumer Protection BC. They oversee debt collectors and license collection agents in the province. | ||
You can contact them by phone or make a complaint. [https://www.consumerprotectionbc.ca/ | You can contact them by phone or make a complaint. [https://www.consumerprotectionbc.ca/complaint-assistant/ See the Consumer Protection BC website]. | ||
===Go deeper=== | ===Go deeper=== | ||
Want to go further? We offer more detailed guidance on your rights and how to deal with debt collectors. [https://www.peopleslawschool.ca | Want to go further? We offer more detailed guidance on your rights and how to deal with debt collectors. [https://www.peopleslawschool.ca/dealing-debt-collectors/ See our in-depth coverage of this topic]. | ||
==Who can help== | ==Who can help== | ||