Are you struggling with debt? Are you losing sleep because of debt collection harassment? Don't suffer alone! In the United States, there are ways to get help when debt collection is excessive or when there is a dispute about the debt. You can easily resolve the issue by following this guide.

Important! This guide does not mean you don't have to pay your debts. It's about getting help when there is unfair debt collection or misunderstandings about the debt.

[Gather Your Documents]

Before applying, gather the following documents. Make sure nothing is missing!

  • Identification: Driver's license, passport, or other photo ID (for identification purposes)
  • Debt-Related Documents: Debt collection letters, contracts, bank statements, etc. (Bring as much as possible!)
  • Harassment Evidence: Recordings of debt collection calls, text messages, emails, etc. (Be sure to bring them if you have them!)
  • Notepad and Pen: Used to write down necessary information.

[Step 1: Where to Go?]

1. Visit the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) Website:

  • Access the CFPB website (https://www.consumerfinance.gov/) on your computer or smartphone.
  • If the website is difficult to navigate, ask your children or someone close to you for help.

2. File a Complaint with the CFPB (Online or by Mail):

  • Online: Find and click the "Submit a Complaint" button on the website. Enter the information according to the instructions on the screen and attach the prepared documents.

  • Mail: Download the complaint form from the website or call the CFPB and ask them to mail you the form. Fill out the form carefully and send a copy of the prepared documents with it. The address is as follows:

    Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
P.O. Box 4503
Iowa City, Iowa 52244

3. Contact the State Attorney General:

  • Each state has an Attorney General's office. Visit the website of the Attorney General of your state or call to inquire whether you can receive help with debt collection. You can find the website address by searching for "[Your State Name] Attorney General."

4. Consult with a Lawyer (Optional):

  • If the problem is serious or difficult to solve on your own, consider consulting with a lawyer. Lawyer fees can be burdensome, but some places offer free consultations. Search for "Legal Aid [Your State Name]" to find free legal aid organizations.

[Step 2: How to Apply?]

1. Complete the Complaint Form (CFPB or State Attorney General):

  • If applying online, answer the questions on the screen honestly. Describe in detail how you incurred the debt, the content of the debt collection, and examples of harassment.
  • If applying by mail, read the complaint form carefully and fill in the blanks. Write clearly and legibly.

2. Submit Supporting Documents:

  • Submit the documents you prepared with the complaint form. Submit copies only, as you may lose the originals.
  • If applying online, scan or take pictures of the documents and attach them as files.

3. Confirm Receipt:

  • If you applied online, receive a confirmation email. If you applied by mail, call the CFPB or the State Attorney General to confirm that your application has been received.

4. Check Progress:

  • Wait for the CFPB or the State Attorney General to contact you. Contact the person in charge directly by phone or email to inquire about the progress.

[Step 3: What to Watch Out For?]