Can collections call your work?

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In Canada, debt collectors generally can’t call you at work if it could jeopardize your job or if your employer disallows it. Each province has rules, but Alberta and Ontario allow you to formally stop these workplace calls. Knowing the law can help you manage your debt collection experience better. Reach out via phone, text, or live chat if you have any questions.

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Collections Call Question

Can collections call your work? Are collections agencies allowed to reach out to me at my job?

From: Anonymous Question
Location: Mississauga, Ontario (ON)
Category: debt management plan

Collections Call Answer

In Canada, debt collectors can’t exactly bug you at work, especially if your boss has banned such calls or if it might put your job at risk. Each province generally lays down its own set of rules, ensuring collectors reach out to your workplace only if certain boxes are ticked, like not having your home contact info or if you’ve given them the go-ahead in writing. Provinces like Alberta and Ontario are even more consumer-friendly, letting you formally wave off these workplace nuisances, so you’re more in control of the whole debt collection saga. Reach out via phone, text or live chat if you have any questions.

From: Insider Adam

Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy (OSB) Answer

Yes, collections agencies are allowed to contact you at your workplace, but they must follow specific regulations. According to the Act and relevant regulations, collectors are required to avoid harassment and must respect your privacy. If you inform them that you do not wish to be contacted at work, they are mandated to cease such communications. This is outlined in the Collection Agencies Act and the regulations under the Act. Specifically, reference the requirements in the regulations that govern the conduct of collection agencies to ensure they do not engage in unfair practices.

From: OSB Helper

Related Questions to Collection Calls

Here are the top 5 most frequently asked questions related to the topic of collection calls at work, based on the provided sources and general online trends:

Can collection agencies call my workplace?

• No, employers are generally not required to allow debt collectors to contact employees at work[4].

What are the rules for collection agencies contacting me at work?

• Collection agencies can only contact your employer if your employer has guaranteed to pay the debt or if they are looking for your address, phone number, employment status, business title, or business address[5].

Can my employer pass on messages from collection agencies?

• Employers have the discretion to decide whether to pass on messages from collection agencies to employees[4].

Are collection agencies allowed to contact my family or acquaintances at work?

• Collection agencies cannot contact your family or acquaintances unless they have guaranteed to pay the debt or are looking for your contact information[5].

Can I stop collection agencies from calling my workplace?

• You can request that collection agencies only contact you through a lawyer or at an address you provide[5].

If you have a question about debt see our debt questions or ask your own debt related question.

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