What Debt Collectors Can (and Can’t) Legally Do in Alabama

If you’re dealing with constant calls, threatening messages, or aggressive letters from debt collectors, you’re not alone. Many Alabama families face overwhelming debt — and unfortunately, some collectors cross the line.

The good news? You have rights.

Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), debt collectors must follow strict rules about how they contact you and what they can say. In this article, we’ll break down what debt collectors can legally do, what they can’t do, and what steps you can take to protect yourself.

1. What Debt Collectors Can Legally Do

Debt collectors are allowed to attempt to collect legitimate debts. That includes:

✔ Contacting You About a Valid Debt

If you owe a debt, a collector may reach out by phone, letter, email, or even text message (within reasonable limits).

✔ Calling Between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.

Collectors may only contact you during legally permitted hours unless you specifically agree otherwise.

✔ Sending Written Notices

They may send letters outlining:

• The amount owed
• The name of the creditor
• Your right to dispute the debt

These actions, by themselves, are not illegal. The law recognizes that creditors have a right to attempt collection — but there are clear boundaries.

2. What Debt Collectors Cannot Legally Do

This is where many collectors get into trouble.

Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, collectors violate the law if they:

✘ Call Before 8 a.m. or After 9 p.m.

Repeated early morning or late-night calls are prohibited.

✘ Harass, Threaten, or Intimidate You

This includes:

• Repeated nonstop calls
• Threats of arrest
• Threats of violence
• Aggressive or abusive language

✘ Use Profanity or Lie

Collectors cannot:

• Misrepresent how much you owe
• Claim you committed a crime
• Falsely state that you will be arrested
• Pretend to be an attorney or law enforcement officer

✘ Contact Your Employer or Family (Beyond Location Information)

They may contact third parties only to confirm your contact information — not to discuss your debt.

Violations of these rules can result in penalties against the debt collector. In some cases, you may even be entitled to compensation.

Example: Meet Sarah

Let’s say Sarah, a single mom in Alabama, falls behind on medical bills.

Soon, she starts getting calls at 7:00 a.m. — sometimes multiple times per day. One caller tells her she could go to jail if she doesn’t pay immediately. Another calls her workplace and leaves a message with a coworker about her debt.

That’s not just stressful — it’s illegal.

Under the FDCPA, Sarah’s rights have likely been violated. If she keeps records of those calls and voicemails, she may have grounds to take legal action.

How Bankruptcy Can Help Stop Harassment

If the debt is legitimate and you’re overwhelmed, bankruptcy may provide powerful relief.

When you file for bankruptcy, something called an automatic stay goes into effect. This immediately stops most collection actions — including calls, letters, lawsuits, and wage garnishments.

For many of our clients, the silence after filing is almost immediate — and life-changing.

At Alabama Bankruptcy Relief Center, founded by Attorney Matt Davis, we not only help clients file bankruptcy — we also evaluate whether debt collectors have violated your rights.

If they have, you may be able to:

• Stop the harassment
• Recover damages
• Hold the collector accountable

What You Should Do If You’re Being Harassed

If collectors are crossing the line:

1. Save voicemails
2. Keep copies of letters
3. Screenshot text messages
4. Write down dates and times of calls

Documentation can be critical if legal action becomes necessary.

You Don’t Have to Handle This Alone

Debt collectors rely on fear and pressure. But the law is on your side.

If you’re being harassed — or if you’re considering bankruptcy as a fresh start — our team is here to guide you.

Call Alabama Bankruptcy Relief Center today at 205-860-7708 or visit our online booking page to schedule a free case evaluation and find out how we can help protect you and your family.