What if I can't afford to pay a debt collector?


Editorial team Published on

If you do not pay a debt, collectors will contact you repeatedly, lower your credit score, and potentially sue you to garnish your wages or seize funds from your bank account.

Continuous Contact

  • Debt collectors will call, text, email, or mail letters to ask for payment.
  • Federal rules from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau limit calls to between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.
  • You can send a written letter to ask them to stop calling, though the debt does not go away.

Credit Score Damage

  • Unpaid collections lower your credit score.
  • A collection mark can stay on your credit report for up to 7 years.

Legal Actions and Lawsuits

  • Collectors can file a lawsuit against you in court to collect the money.
  • If they win a court judgment, they may be allowed to garnish your wages or freeze your bank account.
  • Rules vary by state, and federal benefits like Social Security are usually protected from seizure.
  • You can learn more about your rights and restrictions through the California Office of the Attorney General or the Federal Trade Commission.