Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in Pennsylvania

Yes, debt collectors can call, even on Sundays, as long as the calls are between the hours of 8 AM and 9 PM in the time zone where you are located (Eastern Standard Time). They can even push the envelope and call at 8:59 pm.

Debt collectors are allowed to try and collect the debt and call, but they cannot harass you. It depends on how much they are calling. 10 times in one day? Or once at home, once at work and once on the cell phone in 1 day?

Also, have you written to the debt collector? If so, have you used the magic words "do not call me at workas my employer does not allow me to receive personal calls?" Have you asked them not to contact you any more about the debt? Are you represented by an attorney and does the debt collector know of that? If so, its a violation of PA law to contact you when you are represented and the collector is aware of it. Its also unlawful for them to contact you at work or after you have requested, in writing, that they not do either.

A more important question is, is this your debt? Is it within the statute of limitations or has that expired if its your debt? If it is your debt and you are within the statute, what are your plans for resolving the debt? Is it for an unsecured debt, like a credit card, or something else? Who is the debt collector? The creditor? Is it an original creditor or a junk debt buyer?

These are just some things to think about. The answers will dictate what you decide to do. Depending on your circumstances, how much is owed and your assets, it may make sense to ultimately file bankruptcy. Or it may make sense to do nothing. You can also resolve the debt out of court if you have the funds. And you can definitely stop the calls.

If you are interested in discussing the specifics of your case in confidence and learning of your options, I give free email consults. I also resolve debts in a non-bankruptcy/non-litigation context for a reasonable fee. Please contact me at [email protected] if interested.