I am receiving calls from creditors, collection agencies or debt collectors.  They are calling me and making threats telling me to pay now or else, or they say they need my social security number.  What can I do?

You can contact the Federal Trade Commission for information regarding debt collectors and collection agencies.  These organizations are required to follow federal laws such as the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act and the Fair Credit Reporting Act.  These laws protect consumers from certain business practices, including harassment or threats by debt collectors and collections agencies. The law also provides for penalties against businesses that violate these laws.  (However, if the original creditor is contacting you regarding your debt, the creditor may not be subject to these federal laws.)

In addition, these businesses are required to be registered and bonded as a collection agency with the Utah Division of Corporations and Commercial Code.

If you want more information, please contact:

Consumer Response Center
Federal Trade Commission
Washington, DC 20580
(877)FTC-HELP
www.ftc.gov

Division of Corporations and Commercial Code
160 East 300 South, Second Floor
Salt Lake City, Utah 84114
(801) 530-4849
www.corporations.utah.gov