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Home English FAQs Collections-Creditors Rights Massachusetts

What Is A Third Party Debt Collector?

A separate company hired by the creditor to collect the debt. Both creditors and third party debt collectors must tell the debtor the name of their company and the name of the individual who is calling. Additionally, third party collectors must, within 5 days of their first phone call, send a letter stating the amount of the debt, the name of the creditor to whom the debt is owed, and a statement that debtor has 30 days to dispute the debt with them, or it is presumed to be valid.

Other Massachusetts Collections-Creditors Rights FAQs

Q: What Is Considered Prohibited Activity (Under Regulations 940 C.M.R. 7 & 209 C.M.R. 18)
A: Collectors and creditors are prohibited from harassing in an effort to collect the debt. This includes: Disclosing debts to a third party including neighbors, … More
Q: Can A Collector Or Creditor Take Debtor To Court To Try To Collect A Debt?
A: If the debtor receives a summons to go to court, they must appear on the hearing date, or contact the court in advance to explain why they cannot appear. They may then … More
Q: What Happens At A Hearing?
A: At the hearing, the court will evaluate whether the debt appears to be valid, and the exact amount due. If the court determines that the debtor owes the debt, either … More
Q: Can The Court Order The Debtor To Pay?
A: The court is not permitted to order them to pay the debt with money from Social Security, welfare, unemployment, or workers compensation benefits. If they are found to … More