Can debt collectors call your work?

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In Canada, debt collectors can contact you at work but must follow strict rules. They’re allowed to confirm employment or remind you of your debt but can’t disclose details to your employer unless you permit it in writing. You and your boss can restrict these calls to protect your privacy, and by law, collectors must comply without threats or lies. Reach out via phone, text, or live chat if you have any questions.

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Debt Collectors Call Your Work Question

Can debt collectors call your work? I’m curious if debt collectors are allowed to call my workplace. It seems like it could cause problems.

From: Anonymous Question
Location: Calgary, Alberta (AB)
Category: debt management plan

Debt Collectors Call Your Work Answer

Debt collectors can indeed ring you at work, but they’re walking a bit of a tightrope with rules. They’re allowed to confirm you’ve got a job or give a little nudge about paying up, but they can’t gossip to your boss about the debt unless your employer has backed your debt or you’ve given the thumbs up in writing. Your boss can also decide to block these calls altogether if it’s to shield your privacy, and you can tell them to buzz off too! And by law, they have to listen. No scary threats or fibbing allowed when they make these connections. If you want to understand more about how debt collectors operate, check out our article on debt collectors.

From: Insider Scott

Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy (OSB) Answer

Yes, debt collectors can call your workplace in Canada, but there are regulations governing how they may do so. Under the Collection Agencies Act, specifically section 10 of the regulations, debt collectors must not engage in conduct that is harassing or oppressive. This includes contacting you at your workplace if they are aware that your employer does not permit such calls.

If the debt collector does not have that information or if the employer allows it, they can make such calls. However, it’s important for you to be aware that this could potentially lead to issues with your employer, depending on the nature of the calls. Always check with your employer regarding their policies on such matters. If you’re seeking professional advice about handling debt, you might want to consider reaching out to a credit counsellor.

From: OSB Helper

Related Questions to Debt Collectors Calling Your Work

Here are the top 5 frequently asked questions related to debt collectors calling your workplace, based on the provided sources and general online trends:

1. Can debt collectors call my work?

No, they are generally not allowed to if it is known that such contact is not permitted by the employer or if it could harm your employment[1][4][5].

2. What should I do if a debt collector calls my workplace?

You should inform the debt collector that you do not want to be contacted at work and request they stop calling your workplace[1][4].

3. Can my employer stop debt collectors from calling me at work?

Yes, employers have the discretion to prohibit debt collectors from contacting employees at work to protect employee privacy and maintain a professional work environment[1][4].

4. Under what conditions can debt collectors discuss my debt with my employer?

Debt collectors can only discuss your debt with your employer if you have provided written authorization, or if they are calling regarding a court order or wage assignment[4].

5. How can I stop debt collectors from contacting me at work?

You can request that the debt collector stop contacting you at work, and they are typically required to comply with this request[1][4].

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

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