When it comes to debt collection, both businesses and consumers need to understand their rights and responsibilities. That’s where the Fair Debt Collections Practices Act (FDCPA) comes in. This federal law, enacted in 1977, protects consumers from abusive collection practices and outlines how and when debt collectors can contact them. It also sets clear expectations for collection agencies to remain compliant.
Whether you're a consumer being contacted by a collection agency or a landlord or business trying to recover unpaid balances, knowing the FDCPA can make the process smoother and more effective. This guide breaks down the law in plain English and explains how Advanced Collection Bureau (ACB) operates fully within its bounds while still achieving strong recovery results.
What Is the Fair Debt Collections Practices Act?
The FDCPA is part of the Consumer Credit Protection Act and is enforced by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). Its purpose is to eliminate abusive practices in the collection of consumer debts and to ensure that ethical debt collectors are not competitively disadvantaged by those who engage in misconduct.
The FDCPA applies to third-party debt collectors—such as collection agencies or law firms that regularly collect debts on behalf of others. It does not apply to original creditors collecting their own debts. That means if a landlord or business hires ACB, the FDCPA governs how we interact with the debtor.
For a more detailed overview of ACB’s collection methods, read How Apartment Debt Collection Works.
Key Protections Under the FDCPA
Time and Place of Contact
Debt collectors can only contact consumers between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. local time, unless the consumer agrees otherwise. They are also not allowed to contact a consumer at work if told not to.
Harassment and Abuse Prohibited
Collectors may not use threats, obscene language, or call repeatedly to annoy the debtor. They must remain professional and respectful at all times.
No False or Misleading Representations
Collectors can’t lie about the amount owed, claim to be law enforcement, or threaten legal action they can't take. Accuracy and honesty are required.
Written Validation of Debt
Within five days of first contact, collectors must send a written notice outlining the debt amount, the creditor’s name, and the consumer’s right to dispute the debt.
Disputing a Debt
If the consumer disputes the debt in writing within 30 days, the collector must stop collection activity until verification is provided.
At ACB, we strictly follow all FDCPA regulations. Our communications are respectful, our documentation is clear, and we never pressure or mislead consumers. Learn how respectful collection improves outcomes in Maintaining Positive Tenant Relationships During the Debt Collection Process.
Why It Matters for Landlords and Businesses
Landlords and property managers often wonder if FDCPA compliance slows down the recovery process. The answer is no—when done correctly, compliance actually improves results. Tenants and consumers are more likely to respond when they feel they’re being treated fairly.
Working with a professional agency like ACB ensures your collections stay legal, ethical, and efficient. We don’t just follow the rules—we build trust with debtors to resolve balances faster.
If you’re not seeing results with your current collection partner, read The Benefits of Outsourcing Collections to understand how a better process can deliver better outcomes.
The ACB Commitment to Legal and Ethical Recovery
At Advanced Collection Bureau, compliance isn’t just a checkbox—it’s the foundation of our service. We train every agent on the FDCPA, maintain accurate documentation, and audit our communication processes to ensure full alignment with federal law.
This gives our clients peace of mind. Whether you're recovering unpaid rent, medical fees, or commercial invoices, you can trust ACB to recover funds the right way. To see how our approach works in action, visit How a Debt Collection Agency Can Help Recover Lost Revenue.
Want ethical, compliant, and effective debt recovery? Work with us and partner with an agency that puts professionalism and results first.
