You may face unexpected circumstances that make it difficult to repay a debt, and the pressure can feel overwhelming. Repeated collection calls can add even more stress, especially if you worry that the collector might call your workplace.
If you live in Maryland, state law limits when a collector can reach out to your employer about money you owe.
Your workplace has protection from debt collection calls
If you owe a debt, a debt collector generally cannot contact your employer to discuss or disclose a debt you owe. A collector may be permitted to contact your employer only to locate you, and even then cannot reveal that you owe a debt. If your employer does not allow personal debt-related calls at work and the collector knows this, contacting you at your workplace may also violate the law.
Maryland law also restricts how collectors can discuss your debt with others. A collector cannot use your debt to embarrass or pressure you by telling people who do not have a valid reason to know about it.
Debt collectors cannot use threats or harassment
The law limits the methods a debt collector can use to pressure you into paying. A collector cannot:
- Threaten force or violence to collect a debt.
- Use obscene or grossly abusive language when communicating with you.
- Threaten to have you prosecuted for a crime unless the debt involves a criminal offense.
- Make false claims about legal rights or the collection process.
- Reach out at inappropriate times or repeatedly call with the intent to harass you.
These rules can protect you from collection tactics that go beyond simply asking you to repay a debt.
Check the agency and report violations
You may check whether a collection agency has a Maryland license. If you believe a collector violated Maryland’s debt collection rules, you can file a complaint with the State Collection Agency Licensing Board. Save any letters, texts or other proof of the collector’s actions. You may also have the right to recover damages for certain violations.
Protect your rights from improper collection practices
Dealing with debt can be stressful, especially when you worry about your job or repeated collection calls. If a collector contacts your employer or uses threats or harassment, keep records of what happened and learn about your options under the law.
Knowing your rights can help you handle the situation and protect yourself from improper collection practices.