By law, if you write a letter to a debt collection agency asking that they stop calling and writing to you, they must. According to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, the only exceptions are to advise you if they stop trying to collect the debt, or if they decide to seek “an ordinary or specified remedy.” Make sure you send the letter certified, and keep a copy for yourself. Read up on your rights under this law in our Debt Collection Information Center.
Here’s a sample letter for you to use to stop debt collection calls:
Today's Date
Your Name
Your AddressCollector's Name
Collector's AddressDear Debt Collector,
I am writing to request that you cease your communication with me. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act specifically states in Section 805(c) referencing ceasing communication that you must cease all communication with me after being notified in writing that I no longer wish to communicate with you.
Therefore, I require that you stop calling me at home, at work, on my cell phone or any other location. Nor do I wish to receive any further written or electronic communication. In addition, do not call or communicate with any third party acquaintance of mine per section 805(b)2 of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act.
According to the FDCPA’s federal guidelines, I understand that once you receive this letter, you may only contact me to inform me that you:
- are terminating further collection efforts
- are invoking specified remedies that are ordinarily invoked by you or your company
- intend to invoke a specified remedy.
Be advised that I am aware of my rights, and that I am keeping records of all correspondence from you and your company, including tape recording all phone calls. If you continue calling me I will pursue all available legal actions to stop you from harassing me and my family.
Signature
Your Printed Name
