Debt and Its Impact on Human Rights

Once upon a time people could be sent to prison for unpaid debts, but these days debt and its impact on human rights have changed for consumers in America.

Millions of people every year find themselves way out of their depth in debt and it is a very worrying time for all concerned. The fear of a bad credit rating and the risk of losing your home and assets are bad enough, without the hassle of constant telephone calls and reminders from your creditors.

Once upon a time, in the bad old good old days, if you couldn’t repay your debts they could simply lock you in prison and throw away the key, but thankfully these days, even if you owe some money which you can’t repay you still have human rights. Debt collectors are not allowed to bully or threaten you, even though many of them hope that you don’t know that!

Facts about Debt Collectors and Your Human Rights

• Thanks to the Fair Debt Practices Act (FDCPA) and state laws, just because you owe money to a creditor it doesn’t mean that you don’t have rights as a consumer. Before these laws were passed debt collectors were almost a law unto themselves and would call at all hours using abusive and threatening language and any other demeaning tactics which could force debtors into breakdowns. They’re not allowed to do that now so don’t allow yourself to be bullied.
• Most of the debt collectors will sincerely hope that you don’t know anything about the above laws which puts them in the driving seat so to speak, but if you do get contacted for an unpaid debt or bill that’s past due, make it your business to find out your rights in your particular state, they’re designed to protect your human rights so use them.
• If a debt collector does violate your human rights then don’t be afraid to fight them back, even if you do actually owe the money that has nothing to do with what’s fair and lawful. Let them know that you know your rights, and then they’ll have to back off and deal with the matter according to the law.
• More people complain to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) about debt collectors than they do about any other industry. No companies want to be reported, no matter how big and powerful they may seem, so let them know that you are knowledgeable of the situation and if they continue to harass you or contravene your human rights, report them.