Posted on May 21, 2009 at 2:28 pm I have these two old credit card accounts that I got in trouble with while I was in college. Now I think they are with collection agencies (not positive!) and it seems like my phone will not stop ringing!!!! Is there a limit as to how many times debt collectors can call someone in a single day?

Posted on May 21, 2009 at 2:38 pm Hi Kristen- sorry to hear about all of the phone calls, they truly can be a huge pain in the you know what. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) to my knowledge does not actually provide an actual number of times a debt collector can call you in one day. However, the FTC has interpreted the FDCPA (and have published this interpretation) and has stated that debt collectors may only call for realistic reasons such as touching base the first time with the debtor, following up on a previous phone conversation, or to verify information. Simply calling the debtor over and over and over again constitutes harassment and is a violation of the FDCPA. Also, I do know that the FDCPA prohibits debt collectors from contacting people before 8 AM and after 9 PM local time, so if you are getting calls outside of those hours that is also a violation of the FDCPA. I will make one suggestion as well- if you do not ever pick up the phone- rest assured they will continue calling all day long. You may want to consider picking up the phone once to acknoweldge the collector. You can tell them (if you can't pay now) that you are currently trying to improve your financial situation at this time to satisfy the debt, but until you do, you would prefer if they stopped trying to reach you. I don't think it will get the calls to stop completely, but hopefully it will at least give you a break from hearing that phone ring constantly!

Posted on May 21, 2009 at 3:04 pm Hi Kristen- Have you thought of a way to satisfy the outstanding balances so you do not have to deal with the calls ever again? That may be the most important question to ask yourself.

Posted on May 21, 2009 at 3:07 pm The truth is I have not given it much thought. I just recently graduated from school and am working part time as a waitress so my income varies also. As everyone knows it is really tough to get a second job because of the economy right now or else I would!!! Anyway, any suggestions? I have been reading about these debt settlement companies and they sound ok. It does not sound like credit counseling would be for me since the debts are really old. And there is no chance I will ever file bankruptcy, I am young and need my credit!!!

Posted on May 21, 2009 at 3:12 pm Debt settlement is something you may want to consider. Ultimately these companies negotiate with the collection agencies handling your debt to reduce the balance owed and settle the account for a percentage of the full amount. Since your accounts sound like they are pretty far past due and in collections this would be an option for you. Why don't you fill out a form on the website and get a free consultation? I know a little bit about debt settlement but I am surely not experienced enough to give you the proper guidance. I am sure there are other factors that must be considered. Or, you can post another thread to see if you can get some other people to take notice of your situation and give you some additional input.

Posted on June 2, 2009 at 6:44 am Hi Kristen,You can also opt for credit counseling. I know that you'd like to go ahead with debt settlement, but that option is actually more advisable for consumers who have a steady income. By enrolling your accounts in credit counseling, certified instructors are able to meet with you and help you create a personalized financial plan, as well as helpful budgeting tips. Also if they assess that you need to enroll in a debt management program, you'll be able to pay a little each month--in payments that you can afford-- towards all your debts, at a reduced interest rate.Hope this helps you to keep your options open for other alternatives :)