Reading Skills for Today's Adults

Shane lost his job at the school. He was worried about his loss of income. He thought, “How will I make my rent payment? How will I pay off my loans? How will I make ends meet?” 

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Shane was probably not going to be able to pay his bills on time. He worried about debt collectors knocking on this door. He had visions of big, unfriendly men harassing him and his family for his unpaid bills.

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Kim, Shane’s case worker at the Workforce Center, tried to help ease some of Shane’s concerns. She suggested that he contact his creditors right away. Many creditors are willing to discuss a modified payment plan that reduces a person’s monthly payment to a more manageable level. If Shane does this, his creditors will know he is trying to meet his obligations.

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If Shane chooses not to contact his creditors and neglects his payments, his accounts will be turned over to a debt collector. Kim gave Shane some information on the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. 

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She reviewed the Federal Trade Commission’s “Fair Debt Collection” brochure with him. It addressed many commonly asked questions on the subject. Kim wanted Shane to be informed about his rights and to know that debt collectors must treat people fairly.

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What does it mean to “treat people fairly”? In the matter of debt collection, it means that a debt collector may not contact you at inconvenient times or places, such as before 8:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m., unless you agree. A debt collector also may not contact you at work if the collector knows that your employer disapproves of such contacts.

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According to the Federal Trade Commission, a collector may call you or send mail, email, or texts regarding your debt. Debt collectors may not harass, oppress, or abuse you or any third parties they contact. They may not use threat of violence or harm, and they may not use obscene or profane language.

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Kim suggestions and information were very helpful. Many of Shane’s questions were answered, and many of his worries decreased. Shane is less stressed and is feels more optimistic about his future.