Debt Collection Practices Act (DCPA)

The Debt Collection Practices Act (DCPA) is a federal law that protects consumers from unfair debt collection practices. It prohibits collectors from using abusive, deceptive, or unfair techniques to collect debts. For example, they cannot harass you, lie about what you owe, or contact you at unreasonable hours. It also requires debt collectors to identify themselves and provide important details about the debt. If a collector violates these rules, you have the right to file a complaint or take legal action. The DCPA aims to ensure that debt collection is conducted fairly and transparently.