A lot of people are not aware that there are debt collection laws in place to prevent debtors being harassed by creditors or their collection agents.
People often assume that because they are dealing with a financial institution, the actions of such a company must always be legal.
But often they aren't and the sooner you familiarize yourself with the relevant laws the better.
The main law you are interested in is the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA).
This is a Federal Law so is applicable in all States although individual States have interpreted various clauses in slightly different ways.
You need to be aware of how your State will impose the Law as that is what is relevant to you.
So what type of things are covered by these laws and will it help you to clear your debts faster? Well no, not really but it should help to reduce the stress of dealing with collection agencies.
For example if you find the constant phone calls and letters distressing you can write to your creditors and request that they stop.
Legally they must do so.
In fact on receipt of your letter, they are only allowed to issue one more letter to acknowledge receipt and tell you what they intend to do.
They usually will say they are going to sue for return of their money.
So this doesn't make your debt go away but it may make your home life a little more pleasant.
The Acts also lay down requirements for the way debt collectors behave.
They are prohibited from discussing your debts with third parties with the obvious exception of your debt attorney if you have appointed one.
They cannot threaten you with violence or force.
They cannot make false statements or claims and this includes the threat of legal action when they know that they cannot take any for example against time barred debts.
So it pays to be aware of your rights just don't forget that your main focus should be on how to get rid of these debts once and for all.