The process of debt collection is often a stressful experience for both the creditor and the debtor. However, understanding the laws that govern this process can help alleviate some of these stresses. People in debt typically compare these two options bankruptcy vs debt settlement. In the state of Oregon, these laws are designed to protect consumers from unfair or deceptive practices while also ensuring creditors can collect valid debts. This article aims to provide an in-depth overview of Oregon Debt Collection Laws.

Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA)

Before diving into Oregon-specific laws, it’s crucial to understand the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). This federal law sets the standard for debt collection practices across the United States. It prohibits abusive, unfair, or deceptive practices during the debt collection process.

Under the FDCPA, debt collectors cannot:

• Call you before 8 am or after 9 pm without your permission.
• Contact you at work if they’re told (orally or in writing) that you’re not allowed to get calls there.
• Harass or abuse you or any third parties they contact.
• Lie about the amount you owe.
• Use deceptive methods to collect a debt, such as falsely claiming to be a lawyer or a government representative.

Oregon Debt Collection Laws

Now let’s delve into the specific laws in Oregon. The Oregon Unlawful Debt Collection Practices Act (OUDCPA) mirrors many aspects of the FDCPA but also provides additional protections for Oregon consumers.

Licensing and Bonding Requirements

In Oregon, collection agencies must be licensed and bonded. This ensures that the agency has met specific requirements and provides a level of protection for consumers. If an unlicensed agency attempts to collect a debt, it may be subject to fines and penalties.

Statute of Limitations

Under Oregon law, there is a statute of limitations on debt collection. This means there’s a specific period during which a creditor can sue a debtor to collect a debt. For written contracts, such as personal loans or credit cards, the limit is six years from the date of the last payment. For oral contracts, the limit is also six years.

It’s important to note that making a payment on a debt or even acknowledging it can reset the statute of limitations. Therefore, before paying off an old debt, seek legal advice.

Prohibited Practices

Oregon law prohibits certain practices by debt collectors. These include:

• Threatening or using physical force.
• Communicating with the debtor at their place of employment after being asked not to.
• Disclosing information about a debtor’s debt to any third party without the debtor’s consent.
• Misrepresenting the character, extent, or amount of a debt.
• Using obscene or profane language.

Penalties for Violations

If a debt collector violates the OUDCPA, the debtor can sue for any actual damages suffered, plus additional damages up to $1,000. The court may also award attorneys’ fees and costs.

Dealing with Debt Collectors in Oregon

If you’re dealing with debt collectors in Oregon, remember that you have rights. You can request validation of the debt, which requires the collector to provide proof that the debt is yours. If a collector harasses you or violates the law, document the incidents and consider seeking legal advice.

Conclusion

Understanding Oregon’s debt collection laws can help protect you from unfair practices and ensure your rights are upheld. If you feel a debt collector has violated these laws, consider consulting with an attorney to discuss your options. Remember, these laws are in place to protect you, not to hinder the legitimate collection of debts.

FAQs

What is the statute of limitations for debt collection in Oregon?

In Oregon, the statute of limitations for debt collection varies depending on the type of debt. For written contracts, the statute of limitations is six years, and for oral contracts, it is also six years.

What types of debt are covered under Oregon Debt Collection Laws?

Oregon Debt Collection Laws cover various types of consumer debt like credit card debt, medical bills, personal loans, student loans, mortgages, and other household debts.

What practices are prohibited by debt collectors in Oregon?

Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), debt collectors in Oregon are prohibited from using deceptive, unfair, or abusive practices. They cannot harass, oppress or abuse any person while collecting a debt.

Can a debt collector garnish wages or bank accounts in Oregon?

Yes, if a debt collector has obtained a judgment against you in court, they can garnish your wages or bank accounts. However, certain types of income, like Social Security, are exempt from garnishment.

What should I do if a debt collector violates Oregon’s Debt Collection Laws?

If you believe a debt collector has violated Oregon’s Debt Collection Laws, you can report them to the Oregon Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission. You may also have the right to sue the debt collector in a state or federal court.

Can I stop a debt collector from contacting me in Oregon?

Yes, you can request a debt collector to stop contacting you by sending a written letter. Once they receive your letter, they may only contact you to confirm there will be no further contact or to notify you of a specific action they intend to take.

What happens if I ignore a debt collection lawsuit in Oregon?

If you ignore a debt collection lawsuit, the court will likely grant a default judgment in favor of the debt collector. This can lead to wage garnishment, bank account levies, and liens on any real property you own.

Can a debt collector collect an old debt past the statute of limitations?

In Oregon, a debt collector can attempt to collect an old debt even if the statute of limitations has expired. However, they cannot sue you for the debt once the statute of limitations has expired.

What is the maximum amount a debt collector can charge in interest and fees in Oregon?

A debt collector can charge interest on the debt, but the rate must be listed in your contract or loan agreement. If it’s not specified, the legal rate of interest in Oregon is 9% per annum.

Can debt collectors call me at work in Oregon?

Debt collectors can call you at work unless they’re informed (either orally or in writing) that you’re not allowed to receive calls there. Under the FDCPA, debt collectors are prohibited from contacting you at inconvenient or unusual times or places.

Glossary

• Account Receivable: This refers to the outstanding invoices or amount of money owed to a company by its clients or customers for goods or services delivered or used.
• Bankruptcy: A federal process where a debtor who owes more than their assets can eliminate or repay their debts under the protection of the bankruptcy court.
• Collection Agency: A company hired by lenders to recover funds that are past due or accounts that are in default.
• Creditor: A person, bank, or other enterprise that has lent money or extended credit to another party.
• Debtor: A person, company, or entity that owes money to another individual or entity (creditor).
• Default: Failure to repay a loan according to the terms agreed upon in the contract.
• Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA): A federal law that limits the behavior and actions of third-party debt collectors, ensuring the fair treatment of consumers.
• Garnishment: A legal process that allows a creditor to remove funds from your bank account or paycheck to satisfy a debt.
• Judgment: A court decision stating that the debtor owes money to the creditor.
• Oregon Debt Collection Laws: These are laws in the state of Oregon that regulate the procedures and practices that a collection agency, lawyer, or original creditor must follow when collecting consumer debts.
• Original Creditor: The entity that originally provided the loan or credit that resulted in a debt.
• Statute of Limitations: The time limit within which a creditor or collector can legally sue a debtor to collect a debt.
• Unsecured Debt: A debt that is not backed by an underlying asset or collateral.
• Secured Debt: A debt in which the borrower pledges some asset as collateral for the loan.
• Collection Notice: A letter sent by a creditor or collection agency to inform a debtor of a debt they owe.
• Credit Report: A record of a person’s credit history, including their identity, existing credit, public records, and inquiries about their credit.
• Debt Validation: A process where a debtor can demand that a creditor provide proof that a debt is valid and the amount claimed is correct.
• Interest: The cost of borrowing money, calculated as a percentage of the amount borrowed.
• Principal: The original amount of money borrowed or still owed on a loan, separate from interest.
• Wage Attachment: A court-ordered process that allows a creditor to take money owed directly from a debtor’s paycheck. It’s another term for wage garnishment.