Harris and Harris debt collection harassment occurs when collectors violate the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) through excessive calls, threats, or contacting third parties about your debt. If you believe Harris and Harris has violated federal law, you may be entitled to statutory damages up to $1,000 plus attorney fees at no cost to you.
Understanding Harris and Harris Debt Collection Agency
Harris and Harris is a debt collection agency that has been in business for over 50 years. Based in Chicago, Illinois, this debt collection company provides services across various industries, including healthcare, government, and utilities. While they have built a reputation as a reputable collection agency, they have also faced numerous complaints from consumers regarding their collection practices.
As a debt collection agency, Harris and Harris is subject to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA): a federal law designed to regulate debt collector behavior. The FDCPA prohibits debt collectors from engaging in unfair, abusive, and deceptive practices when attempting to collect on a debt. Despite these regulations, Harris and Harris has been accused of violating the FDCPA through false or misleading representations, threatening actions that cannot be legally taken, and using unfair or unconscionable means to collect debts.
While Harris and Harris is an accredited debt collection agency with the Better Business Bureau, it has also drawn numerous complaints from consumers about its aggressive practices.
Harris and Harris Debt Collection Harassment Tactics
Harris and Harris debt collection harassment typically begins with frequent phone calls—often several times daily. They might attempt to contact you at home, at work, or through your cell phone. The problem escalates when these calls become persistent, leaving you feeling overwhelmed. Many debt collectors rely on this strategy, hoping that frequent calls will push you into paying a debt quickly, even if you’re unsure about the claim’s amount or validity.
Phone calls aren’t the only harassment method. They might also send intimidating letters or emails using threatening language. Common threats from collectors include:
- Lawsuits: They may threaten to sue you if you don’t pay the debt. This tactic often causes anxiety, but in many cases, the threat is empty without a valid legal basis.
- Credit Damage: Some collectors claim they will report the debt to credit bureaus, causing your credit score to plummet. This is a scare tactic designed to force immediate payment.
- Wage Garnishment: In some cases, they might threaten to garnish your wages, even if they have no legal basis to do so without a court judgment.
These threats push you into action out of fear. However, debt collectors have limited power: Harris and Harris must abide by the law, and many tactics could be illegal under the FDCPA. If you experience any of these harassing behaviors, you can fight back. Contact The Wood Law Firm at +1 844-638-1122 for assistance in stopping harassment.
Related: Diversified Adjustment Service Debt Collection Harassment
Your Rights Under the FDCPA
As a consumer, you have specific rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. These rights ensure that debt collectors treat you fairly and respectfully. You have the right to dispute the debt and request that debt collectors stop contacting you. Additionally, debt collectors are prohibited from disclosing your personal information to third parties without your consent.
If Harris and Harris or any other debt collection agency contacts you, be aware of your rights under the FDCPA:
- Request that the debt collector provide written notice of the debt, including the amount owed and the name of the creditor
- Dispute the debt within 30 days of first contact if you believe it is inaccurate or unfair
- Demand that collectors cease all contact by sending a written request
- File complaints with regulatory agencies if your rights are violated
Understanding your debt collection rights helps you block unwanted calls, protect yourself from scams, and regain peace of mind.
Common Warning Signs of Harris and Harris Harassment
Phone harassment often begins with seemingly innocent calls but may escalate over time. The following behaviors are clear signs that Harris and Harris phone harassment is taking place:
- Repeated Calls: You might notice multiple calls from Harris and Harris in a single day. This behavior violates FDCPA regulations, which prohibit excessive phone calls aimed at harassing or annoying the debtor. Courts have found 7-10 calls per day potentially excessive. If you’re receiving calls day and night from the same numbers, they may be breaking the law.
- Calls After You’ve Requested No Contact: You have the right to request that a debt collector stop contacting you, and they are legally required to honor that request. If debt collectors continue calling after you’ve asked them to stop, they are violating the law.
- Threatening Language: No debt collector can use abusive, threatening, or profane language when communicating with you. If Harris and Harris representatives use such language, they engage in illegal behavior.
- Calls to Your Workplace: In many cases, Harris and Harris might attempt to contact you at your place of work. However, they must stop if you inform them that you cannot receive such calls at work or that your employer disapproves. Continuing to call you at your workplace after you’ve requested no contact violates your rights.
If any of these warning signs appear, act immediately. Document each interaction with Harris and Harris collectors, including the dates, times, and nature of the calls or communications. This documentation can be invaluable if you file a complaint or take legal action.
Related: Everest Receivables Debt Collection Harassment
How to Stop Harris and Harris Phone Harassment
You don’t have to tolerate Harris and Harris phone harassment. Here are several actions you can take to stop the harassment and protect your rights:
Send a Cease and Desist Letter
One of the most effective ways to stop Harris and Harris phone harassment is to send them a cease and desist letter. This formal request notifies the debt collector that you no longer wish to be contacted regarding the alleged debt. Under the FDCPA, debt collectors must comply with this request and cease communication, except for specific exceptions such as notifying you of legal action.
The letter should be clear and concise. Include your name, contact information, and details about the alleged debt. Send the letter via certified mail with a return receipt request so you have proof that Harris and Harris received it.
Request Debt Validation
If Harris and Harris collectors contact you about a debt, you can request validation: they must provide written proof that the debt is valid and that you owe the amount they claim. The FDCPA requires debt collectors to provide this information within five days of contacting you. If Harris and Harris cannot validate the debt, they are not legally allowed to continue attempting to collect it.
Send your validation request in writing within 30 days of first contact, and keep copies of all correspondence. This step can help protect you from paying debts you don’t owe and may stop further harassment.
File a Complaint with Regulatory Authorities
If Harris and Harris continues to harass you despite your efforts to stop the communication, consider filing a complaint with government agencies such as the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), or your state attorney general’s office. These agencies can investigate and penalize debt collectors who engage in illegal practices.
When filing a complaint, provide as much information as possible: documentation of calls, letters, or other interactions with Harris and Harris. Regulatory authorities take consumer complaints seriously and may take action against the debt collector.
Contact Legal Representation
If you cannot stop Harris and Harris phone harassment on your own, legal assistance may be necessary. The Wood Law Firm specializes in protecting consumers from abusive debt collection practices. Our team can help you understand your rights, stop harassment, and even pursue legal action against Harris and Harris if necessary.
By contacting The Wood Law Firm at +1 844-638-1122, you can receive professional advice on how to handle Harris and Harris debt collection harassment and end their unethical tactics.
Related: Asset Recovery Solutions Debt Collection Harassment
Recognizing Harris and Harris Scams
Not all interactions with Harris and Harris will be legitimate. Debt collection scams are unfortunately common, and some collectors may even attempt to collect on debts that are paid or that you don’t owe. Here’s how to identify and avoid falling victim to Harris and Harris scams:
- Unfamiliar Debt: If Harris and Harris contacts you about a debt you don’t recognize, be cautious. Scammers often target consumers with debts that have passed the statute of limitations or with entirely fabricated debts. Always request debt validation before making any payments or providing personal information.
- Demanding Payment Without Verification: One of the biggest red flags in debt collection scams is a demand for immediate payment without providing any proof that you owe the debt. A legitimate debt collector must provide a debt validation notice within five days of contacting you. If debt collectors refuse to provide this documentation or rush you to make a payment, consider this a scam.
- Threatening Legal Action or Arrest: While Harris and Harris may have the legal right to sue you over unpaid debt, they cannot threaten arrest or jail time. If a representative threatens to have you arrested or demands payment to avoid legal consequences, it’s likely a scam. The FDCPA strictly prohibits this behavior, and Harris and Harris would violate your rights if they engage in such practices.
Resolving a Debt with Harris and Harris
If you owe money to Harris and Harris, resolving the debt promptly is essential. You can contact Harris and Harris directly to discuss payment options. Before contacting them, ensure you are well-prepared: they may try to negotiate a settlement or payment plan.
When resolving a debt with Harris and Harris, keep detailed records of all correspondence and payments:
- Understand the terms of any payment plan or settlement, including the debt amount, payment schedule, and any associated fees or interest charges
- Get all agreements in writing before making any payments
- Request confirmation letters once the debt is paid in full
- Keep copies of all documentation for your records
Removing Harris and Harris from Your Credit Report
If you have paid off a debt to Harris and Harris, you may be able to remove the collection account from your credit report. Request that Harris and Harris provide you with a letter confirming that the debt has been paid in full. You can then submit this letter to the credit bureaus to have the account removed.
Alternatively, if you believe the debt is inaccurate or unfair, you can dispute it with the credit bureaus:
- Obtain copies of your credit report from all three major bureaus (Experian, Equifax, TransUnion)
- File disputes with specific details about why the information is incorrect
- Provide supporting documentation such as payment receipts or validation letters
- Follow up with the credit bureaus to ensure the disputed information is investigated
- Collection accounts can remain on your credit report for up to seven years from the date of first delinquency
Filing Complaints Against Harris and Harris
If you believe that Harris and Harris collectors have violated the FDCPA or engaged in harassing behavior, it’s essential to file a formal complaint. Holding debt collectors accountable for their actions protects you and other consumers from abusive practices. Here’s how to file a complaint:
- Document All Harassment: Keep track of every interaction with Harris and Harris collectors: phone calls, letters, and emails. Note the dates, times, and content of communications, especially any threats or harassing language.
- Submit a Complaint to the CFPB: The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau allows consumers to file complaints online. Provide detailed information about the harassment, and the CFPB will investigate your claim.
- Contact Your State Attorney General: Many states have laws regarding debt collection harassment. You can file a complaint with your state’s attorney general’s office, which may take legal action against Harris and Harris if they have violated state regulations.
- Consider Legal Action: In severe harassment cases, you may have grounds to file a lawsuit against Harris and Harris collectors. An experienced attorney from The Wood Law Firm can help you navigate the legal process and determine whether a lawsuit is right for you.
Related: Professional Debt Mediation Harassment
Is Harris and Harris a Scam?
Many people ask if Harris and Harris is a scam because of the way they operate. Harris and Harris is a real debt collection agency, but their tactics often cause confusion. For example, some consumers report being contacted for debts they don’t owe or have already paid. Others say the communication style feels threatening, making it seem like a scam.
If Harris and Harris contacts you, don’t ignore them. Instead, verify the debt: request written proof, check your credit report, and confirm details before making any payments. Treat them with caution, but know they are not a fraudulent company.
When to Report Debt Collector Abuse
You should report Harris and Harris if you believe they violated your rights under the FDCPA. Common reasons to report include:
- Repeated calls after a written request to stop
- Threatening arrest or legal action without cause
- Refusing to validate the debt
- Using profanity or intimidation
- Calling before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m.
- Contacting third parties about your debt
You can file complaints with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), or your state attorney general’s office. These reports help document unlawful behavior and may stop future abuse.
When to Seek Legal Help
Sometimes, reporting isn’t enough. If you’ve tried to stop the harassment and it continues, or if you’ve suffered emotional stress or financial harm, it’s time to contact an attorney.
At The Wood Law Firm, we help consumers hold debt collectors accountable. Our attorneys understand the laws that protect you and can take action to stop illegal calls, challenge false debt claims, and even pursue compensation if your rights were violated.
You don’t have to face Harris and Harris debt collection harassment alone: legal support can make the difference.
About The Wood Law Firm
At The Wood Law Firm, our mission is to protect consumers from predatory practices and ensure they receive the fair treatment they deserve. We specialize in cases involving the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), and Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA). Since 2010, we have fought to hold companies accountable and secure justice for our clients.
Choosing The Wood Law Firm means partnering with a team deeply committed to your cause. We understand the stress and frustration that comes with facing unfair consumer practices, and we stand by your side every step of the way. Our personalized approach, combined with our extensive experience and national reach, makes us uniquely equipped to handle your consumer protection needs.
The Wood Law Firm has cultivated strong Of Counsel relationships with attorneys licensed in Arizona, California, Florida, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and West Virginia.
About Attorney Jeff Wood
Attorney Jeff Wood is an accomplished attorney based in Arkansas, where he is fully licensed to practice law. With over 18 years of experience, Mr. Wood specializes in consumer protection, focusing on cases involving the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), and Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA). His extensive experience and dedication to consumer rights make him a trusted advocate for those facing debt collection harassment.
Client Success Stories
Excessive Call Harassment Case
Patricia from Illinois received 12-15 calls daily from Harris and Harris despite requesting they stop. After documenting the harassment pattern over four weeks, The Wood Law Firm filed an FDCPA lawsuit. Harris and Harris settled for $2,800, which included statutory damages and an agreement to cease all contact.
Workplace Contact Violation
Thomas in Michigan informed Harris and Harris that his employer prohibited personal calls at work, but the calls continued for three weeks. We documented each workplace call with specific dates and times, then pursued legal action. The case settled for $2,600, and Harris and Harris was prohibited from further workplace contact.
Failure to Validate Debt
Rebecca from Ohio requested debt validation from Harris and Harris but received no response. Collection calls continued for over 30 days despite the lack of validation. The Wood Law Firm represented Rebecca in an FDCPA claim, resulting in a $3,200 settlement, complete debt dismissal, and removal of the collection from her credit report.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I keep getting calls from Harris and Harris?
Harris and Harris is contacting you to collect a debt that may be valid, disputed, or possibly inaccurate. They work on behalf of creditors to recover unpaid debts. Always request debt validation to confirm the legitimacy of any debt they claim you owe.
Is Harris and Harris a legitimate debt collection agency?
Harris and Harris is a real company accredited by the BBB with over 50 years in business. However, they’ve faced many consumer complaints regarding aggressive collection tactics that may violate the FDCPA.
What rights do I have against debt collection harassment?
The FDCPA protects you from abusive, deceptive, or unfair practices. You can dispute debts within 30 days, demand validation, request no contact in writing, and sue for damages if they violate federal law.
How can I stop Harris and Harris from calling me?
You can send a cease-and-desist letter via certified mail, request written validation of the debt, and file complaints with the CFPB or FTC. Document all interactions for potential legal action.
What are common harassment tactics used by Harris and Harris?
Common tactics include frequent calls (7-10+ daily), threats of lawsuits without legal basis, credit damage warnings, workplace calls after being told to stop, and abusive or threatening language.
Can Harris and Harris sue me or garnish wages?
Harris and Harris may sue if the debt is valid and within your state’s statute of limitations (typically 3-6 years). They cannot garnish wages without obtaining a court judgment first.
Can I be arrested for not paying Harris and Harris?
Debt collection is a civil matter, and you cannot be arrested for unpaid consumer debts like credit cards or medical bills. Any threats of arrest violate the FDCPA.
How can I tell if a Harris and Harris call is a scam?
Be cautious if they demand immediate payment, refuse debt validation, threaten arrest, or pressure you for personal information. Verify any debt before making payments.
How do I remove Harris and Harris from my credit report?
If paid, request a confirmation letter and submit it to credit bureaus. You can also dispute inaccurate debts directly with the bureaus. Collection accounts can remain for up to seven years from the date of first delinquency.
How do I report Harris and Harris for harassment?
File complaints with the CFPB, FTC, or your state attorney general. Document all calls and messages as evidence, including dates, times, caller names, and conversation content. You can also contact The Wood Law Firm at +1 844-638-1122 for legal representation.
Take Back Your Peace of Mind
You don’t have to live with constant calls or threats from Harris and Harris or any other debt collector. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) protects you from harassment, false claims, and abusive tactics. By learning your rights, sending cease-and-desist letters, filing complaints with the right agencies, and seeking professional help, you can stop the harassment and regain control of your financial life.
If Harris and Harris continues to cross the line, our legal team is ready to step in and defend your rights. Call +1 844-638-1122 today for professional guidance. You deserve to live free from debt collection harassment, and we’re here to help you get there.
Additional Resources:
