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What The Debt Collectors Don't Want You To Know
When dealing with creditors & Debt Collectors, it is your right to be treated with
- politeness
- courtesy
- and respect
If you are receiving harassing phone calls from a creditor,
you are within your rights and it is strongly recommended,
to request that all further communication be in writing.
When they next call, you can say:
“As it is my right under the Consumer Credit Code, I withdraw my permission for you to contact me by telephone.
I request that all future communications be made in writing to my address.
If you do not adhere to my request, I will report you to the office of fair trading.’’
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has issued a guideline on debt collection. It includes reasonable conditions such as:
- You should only be phoned between 7:30am and 9:00pm
- You should not be contacted more then 3 times per week without your permission.
- You should not be contacted at work unless there is no alternative.
- Your financial affairs cannot be discussed with your family, friends or employer.
- You, you family and friends should not be abused or threatened in any way
- You should not be threatened with court action when there is no intention of this.
If you think you are being harassed, you can complain to the office of fair trading.
If you feel that you have been threatened or abused, or a debt collector refuses to leave your home or workplace, contact the police.
If a creditor threatens to prosecute you in the criminal courts, don’t worry. Being in debt is not a criminal offense.
Full details of your rights can be obtained from the Australian competition and consumer commission or from your state office of fair trading.
Debt Colloctor Guidlines Can be Found Here. ASIC also provides useful information which can be found Here
Alternativly for more information about our services please call our friendly team on
1300 856 882 or fill out the enquiry form to your left.
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