Arkansas Fair Debt Collection Law
The Arkansas Code Ann. Sections 17-24-101 to 17-24-404 deal with debt collection. The law establishes the State Board of Collection Agencies to oversee debt collection agencies and directs the Board to utilize the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act as a basis for applying state law. It requires that debt collection agencies obtain licenses for an annual fee of around $125, and that they are bonded. The law loosely follows the federal FDCPA, in that it says that:
- Debt collectors can’t publish the names of people who owe money
- A debt collection agency can’t violate post office rules in their mailings
- A debt collector can’t pose as a law enforcement officer by wearing a uniform or carrying a badge, nor leave the impression that he’s acting on behalf of the government
- Debt collection agencies can’t use legal-looking documents when they aren’t, in fact, legal documents
- A debt collector can’t engage in unethical practices, use profanity, or use violence or threats of violence
- Debt collection agencies can’t contact a consumer at work via mail or telephone unless the consumer can’t be reached at home
However, Arkansas law does not allow individual consumers to sue debt collection agencies; when a debt collection agency violates Arkansas fair debt collection law, the State Board of Collection Agencies holds a hearing and may revoke the debt collection agency’s license. So, if you’ve been harassed by a debt collection agency in Arizona, your only real protection is the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act.
With the help of a fair debt attorney, you can often reach a settlement with a debt collection agency that either puts money in your pocket or erases part or all of that debt. Complete the form to the right, and the legal team at StopCollector.com will provide you with a free case evaluation. If the debt collector has violated the FDCPA, we’ll take your case absolutely free.
File a Complaint
If you’ve been the victim of illegal fair debt or fair credit practices, you should file a complaint with the Arkansas Attorney General. Often, attorneys general use consumer complaints as the basis for filing lawsuits against debt collection agencies. Filing a complaint is a way of making your voice heard, and of helping to put a stop to unethical debt collection practices.
You can file an online complaint with the Arkansas Attorney General’s office by clicking here.
Here’s the contact information to call or send a written complaint to the Attorney General’s office:
Office of the Attorney General
323 Center Street, Suite 200
Little Rock, AR 72201
501-682-2007 or 800-482-8982
You should also file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The FTC is responsible for enforcing the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act and the Fair Credit Reporting Act. It looks at patterns of consumer complaints and holds shady debt collection agencies accountable by suing them and fining them. It’s also required to provide Congress with an annual report about debt collection and credit reporting practices that includes the number of consumer complaints filed. You can file a complaint with the FTC by clicking here.
