Can Debt Collectors Call You at Work in Texas?
Debt collectors can legally call you at work in Texas unless you tell them to stop. Send written notice stating your employer prohibits workplace calls, and document everything. If collectors continue calling or violate the FDCPA, file complaints and consider legal action.
Answer the LawsuitReceiving calls from debt collectors at work is stressful. You worry about your reputation. You fear what your boss might think. Coworkers might overhear the conversation.
The truth might surprise you. Debt collectors can legally call you at work in Texas. Both federal and state laws permit workplace calls. However, you have powerful protections under the law.
Debt Collector Sued You After Workplace Calls?
Collectors often file lawsuits after you demand they stop calling. Respond to the summons within your state's deadline to protect your rights and avoid default judgment.
Respond to LawsuitYou can stop these calls immediately. The law gives you that right.
Federal and Texas Laws Allow Workplace Calls
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) governs debt collector behavior nationwide. Texas law follows similar guidelines for debt collection practices.
Both laws permit debt collectors to call you during working hours. They can contact you at your place of employment. The exception kicks in when collectors know your employer prohibits such calls.
Debt collectors must stop calling once they have proper notice. You control when that happens.
You Can Stop Workplace Calls Immediately
You have the right to tell debt collectors to stop calling. Simply inform them that your employer prohibits these calls. The notice works whether you deliver it verbally or in writing.
Written notice provides the best protection. Send your letter via certified mail. Request a signature confirmation for delivery proof. Keep this documentation in case the collector continues calling.
Note that PO Box addresses cannot receive signature confirmations. In those cases, certified mail alone still creates a paper trail.
Your letter should be clear and direct. State that your employer prohibits debt collection calls at work. Demand that all workplace contact stops immediately.
Once the collector receives your notice, workplace calls must stop. If they continue, our partner Solo can help you respond and hold them accountable.
The FDCPA Prohibits Harassment Tactics
Debt collectors cannot harass you. The FDCPA sets clear boundaries for collector behavior. These protections apply whether collectors call your home or workplace.
Illegal Debt Collection Tactics
Collectors violate federal law when they:
- Call before 8:00 am or after 9:00 pm
- Continue calling at work after being told to stop
- Use obscene, profane, or abusive language
- Yell or threaten you during calls
- Call repeatedly just to harass or annoy you
- Discuss your debt with coworkers or supervisors
- Threaten actions they cannot legally take
Document every violation. Note the date, time, and collector’s name. Record what was said during each call. Save voicemails and keep detailed notes.
Your documentation becomes critical evidence. You may need it to file complaints or defend against a lawsuit.
Send a Cease and Desist Letter
A cease and desist letter stops all collector contact. The FDCPA gives you this right. Once a collector receives your letter, they cannot contact you anymore.
The collector can only reach out for two reasons:
- To confirm they will stop contacting you
- To notify you of specific actions like filing a lawsuit
Be aware of the potential consequence. Collectors often file lawsuits after receiving cease and desist letters. They lose their ability to negotiate payment arrangements. Legal action becomes their next step.
Prepare yourself if you send this letter. Learn your state’s laws about debt collection lawsuits. Understand the timeline for responding to court summons. Our partner Solo helps you draft responses to debt collection lawsuits quickly and affordably.
File Complaints Against Violators
Collectors who violate the FDCPA face serious consequences. You can report violations to multiple agencies. Each complaint creates an official record of misconduct.
Where to File Complaints
Report FDCPA violations to these agencies:
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
- Texas Attorney General’s Office
- Your state bar association if an attorney is involved
Include all documentation with your complaint. Provide dates, times, and specific details. Submit recordings if you have them. The more evidence you provide, the stronger your case.
You may also sue the debt collector directly. The FDCPA allows you to recover damages. Successful cases result in statutory damages up to $1,000. You can also recover actual damages and attorney fees.
Protect Your Workplace Privacy
You deserve peace of mind at work. Debt collectors should not disrupt your employment. Your financial situation remains private.
Take action as soon as workplace calls begin. Send written notice immediately. Document everything the collector says or does. Know your rights under federal and Texas law.
Collectors who ignore your demands face penalties. You have legal remedies available. If a collector sues you, respond within the deadline. Our partner Solo makes responding to debt lawsuits simple and affordable.
Your job security matters. Your reputation matters. The law protects both when you know how to use it.