Debt Collector Calls: When They Can Call and How to Make Them Stop

Published September 25, 2026 · Debt collectors and your rights

Federal rules limit when and how often debt collectors can call you. You have rights to tell them to stop contacting you and to report them if they break the rules.

When Debt Collectors Can Call You

A debt collector is a person or company that regularly collects debts owed to others. There are rules about when these collectors can contact you. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) says that debt collectors are generally not allowed to call you before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m. This applies to calls in your time zone.

Debt collectors must also listen to your instructions about when and where it is not convenient for them to contact you. For example, if you tell a collector not to call you at work, they should stop calling you there. If you tell them a certain time of day is bad for calls, they should respect that.

How Often Debt Collectors Can Call You

There are also limits on how often debt collectors can call. The CFPB has a rule called the Debt Collection Rule. This rule says that a debt collector is presumed to be breaking the law if they call you about a specific debt more than seven times within a seven-day period. This means they should not call you more than seven times in one week for the same debt. Also, they should not call you within seven days after you have a phone conversation with them about that debt.

Remember that laws and rules can vary by state. However, these federal rules provide a baseline for your protection.

How to Make Debt Collectors Stop Calling You

You have the right to ask a debt collector to stop contacting you. The CFPB states this clearly. If you want a debt collector to stop calling you, you can tell them directly. Many people choose to send a written letter to make this request. A written letter provides a record of your request.

Keep Good Records

It is helpful to keep good records of your interactions with debt collectors. This can help you if there are any issues later on. Here are some actions you can take:

• Write down dates and times: Note when a debt collector calls you or sends you a letter.
• Save all communications: Keep copies of any letters or emails you send to or receive from a debt collector.
• Note names: Write down the name of the debt collector and the company they work for.
• Record details: Make a note of what was discussed during phone calls, even short ones.
• Track your requests: If you ask a debt collector to stop calling or to stop calling at certain times, write down when you made that request and how you made it.

These records can be very important if you need to show that a debt collector broke the rules.

Check Your Credit Report

Sometimes, debt collection activity can show up on your credit report. It is a good idea to check your credit report regularly to make sure the information is correct. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) says that the three nationwide credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—have permanently extended a program. This program lets you check your credit report from each of them once a week for free. The FTC also states that AnnualCreditReport.com is the only website authorized to fulfill orders for the free credit reports you are legally entitled to receive.

Report a Debt Collector

If you believe a debt collector has broken the rules, you have the right to submit a complaint. The CFPB says you can submit a complaint to them. The CFPB is a government agency that protects consumers in the financial marketplace. They handle complaints about financial products and services, including debt collection.

When you file a complaint, you will usually need to provide details about what happened. This is where your good records can be very useful. The CFPB will review your complaint.

When to get legal help

It can be helpful to talk with a licensed attorney in your state if you have questions about debt collection. An attorney can explain your rights and the laws that apply to your specific situation. They can also help you understand how to respond to debt collectors or if you believe a collector has violated the law. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be able to find help through a legal aid office in your area. Your state bar association may also be able to provide resources or referrals for legal assistance.