How do I stop debt collector calls?
Debt · 3 minute read
Under federal law you can tell a collector in writing to stop contacting you. It stops the calls — but it does not make the debt go away.
The written stop request
Under the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act you can write to a third-party collector and tell them to stop contacting you. Once they receive it, they must stop, apart from a limited notice confirming they are stopping or telling you they intend to take a specific action such as filing suit.
It must be in writing. A phone request does not carry the same weight, and there is nothing to prove afterwards.
What the letter should say
Your name and any account reference. A clear statement that you are requesting they cease contact under the FDCPA. The date. Nothing else is required — you do not need to explain yourself or discuss the debt.
Send it so you have proof of delivery, and keep a copy of both the letter and the receipt.
What it does not do
It does not cancel the debt, remove it from your credit report, or prevent a lawsuit. In some cases it makes a lawsuit more likely, because you have removed the collector's other option.
So consider whether you would rather dispute the debt or negotiate it before you close the door on communication.
Consider disputing first
If you are not certain the debt is yours, the amount is right, or it is still within the time limit for suing, a written dispute requesting verification is usually the stronger first move.
That pauses collection until they verify, and it often ends the matter entirely when their records are thin.
Limiting contact rather than ending it
You can also tell a collector to stop calling at work, to stop calling a specific number, or to communicate only in writing. Written communication is generally better for you anyway, because it creates a record.
Keep a call log with dates, times and what was said. It costs nothing and it is what makes a violation provable.
If they keep calling
Contact after a valid written cease request is a violation. You can complain to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau at consumerfinance.gov and to your state attorney general.
Consumer attorneys often take these cases, and many legal plans include having a letter written and sent on your behalf — which tends to be taken more seriously than one you send yourself.
Quick questions
- Does telling a collector to stop calling erase the debt?
- No. It stops the contact but the debt remains, and the collector can still report it and can still sue within the applicable time limit.
- Do I have to send the stop request in writing?
- Yes, for the federal protection to apply. A written request also gives you proof if contact continues.
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This page is general education, not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws differ by state and every situation is different. For advice about your own situation, speak with a licensed attorney.
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