Where can members report debt collectors violating the law?
Criminal conduct goes to law enforcement; FDCPA and state-law violations can support a civil action and complaints to the CFPB or your state's attorney general.
Criminal conduct goes to law enforcement.
The appropriate response to unlawful conduct by a debt collector depends in part on the nature of the legal violation. If a debt collector is violating a criminal statute, homeowners should report the misconduct to the local sheriff, constable, or police department — or, if federal criminal law is being violated, to the FBI.
Reporting FDCPA & state-law violations.
If a debt collector is violating the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) or a state debt collection statute, homeowners have the option of filing a civil action asserting a claim under the relevant statute. FDCPA violations can also be reported to:
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) — The agency enforces federal consumer financial laws, including the FDCPA, and accepts complaints from servicemembers, including issues arising under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA).
- State violations can be reported to the relevant agency in that state. In many jurisdictions, state attorneys general enforce debt collection statutes, so an AG complaint is usually an option.
The Florida Consumer Collection Practices Act, for instance, is administered by the Attorney General's Office or the Florida Office of Financial Regulation. Also, breaches of Texas's Debt Collection Act can be reported to the Texas Attorney General.
Talk to a licensed attorney first.
Before taking any legal action, homeowners should strongly consider consulting with an attorney who is licensed in the applicable state and familiar with the statutes at issue.
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