Retrieval Masters Credit Bureau (RMCB) debt harassment occurs when collectors use illegal tactics like excessive calls, threats, or contacting third parties about your debt. If you believe RMCB has violated the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), you may be entitled to statutory damages up to $1,000 plus legal representation at no additional cost.
Document all interactions and file complaints with relevant authorities to protect your rights.
What Is Debt Harassment
Debt harassment involves collection agencies using abusive or intimidating tactics to recover debts. These tactics include incessant phone calls, threatening letters, and other forms of communication designed to coerce debtors into making payments. The effects can be devastating, leading to stress, anxiety, and financial strain.
The verification process ensures that any debt being collected is legitimate and accurately documented. Security measures like Ray ID help safeguard debtors from fraudulent or harassing behavior by collection agencies. Understanding these protections allows you to better defend yourself against harassment.
Who Is Retrieval Masters Credit Bureau
Retrieval Masters Credit Bureau is a third-party debt collector headquartered in Elmsford, New York, operating for over 40 years. The firm works with various companies, particularly in healthcare and medical industries, to recover unpaid debts. The company has received numerous complaints, with some involving allegations of fraud that consumers should report to appropriate authorities.
Contact Information
Address: 4 Westchester Plaza, Suite 100, Elmsford, NY 10523
Phone Number: (914) 892-0055
Known Aliases
RMCB operates under various names that may confuse consumers:
- pay retrieval masters
- retrieval masters creditors bureau
- RMB collection agency
Related: Credit Bureau Collection Services Harassment
Common FDCPA Violations by Retrieval Masters Credit Bureau
If you believe RMCB has engaged in these practices, they may have violated federal law:
- Frequent, repetitive phone calls (courts have found 7-10 calls per day potentially excessive)
- Calls outside legal hours (before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m.)
- Inappropriate or offensive language
- Threatening you or others with legal consequences
- Informing third parties, like friends or neighbors, about your debt
- Misleading claims about wage garnishment or arrest threats
Contact The Wood Law Firm at +1 844-638-1122 for a consultation if you’ve experienced these practices.
Related: Diversified Recovery Bureau Debt Collection Harassment
Is Retrieval Masters Credit Bureau Legitimate
RMCB is a registered debt collection agency that has operated for over 40 years. While legitimate, the company has received numerous complaints through the Better Business Bureau (BBB) citing harassment and unprofessional behavior.
Their services are lawful if they adhere to fair practices and the FDCPA. If they contact you, confirm the debt with the original creditor and wait to make payments until you receive written debt validation. Always investigate the legitimacy of the debt collector by checking with the original creditor and verifying the debt.
Related: Credit Recovery Bureau Debt Collection Harassment
How Debt Collection Works
Debt collection is the process by which collection agencies recover unpaid debts from individuals or businesses. These agencies employ various methods including letters, phone calls, and notices to debtors. While many operate within the law, some engage in abusive or harassing behavior such as excessive phone calls, threatening language, or contacting employees or family members of the debtor.
Different types of debt collection exist, such as accounts receivable and payments, each with specific guidelines and regulations. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) outlines what collection agencies can and cannot do, aiming to prevent harassment and protect debtors’ rights. Government authorities like the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regulate collection agencies and ensure compliance with these guidelines.
Your Rights Under the FDCPA
Federal law protects consumers from abusive collection tactics through the FDCPA. Debt collectors like Retrieval Masters Credit Bureau cannot:
- Harass you with constant phone calls
- Use offensive language
- Contact you at inappropriate times
- Contact others about your debt
- Misrepresent themselves or the consequences of the debt
If you believe you’re experiencing these actions, your rights are protected under federal law. The Wood Law Firm defends consumer rights and can guide you on the best course of action.
How to Stop Retrieval Masters Credit Bureau Harassment
If you believe RMCB may be violating your rights, take these steps to protect yourself.
Request Debt Validation
File a request for written confirmation of the debt. Under the FDCPA, debt collectors must provide detailed information about the debt within five days of initial contact. This validation should include the amount owed, the original creditor’s name, and proof that you owe the debt.
Send a Cease and Desist Letter
A properly written cease and desist letter can prevent debt collectors from contacting you, though it may not stop them from initiating legal action. Communicate your request clearly in writing. Contact The Wood Law Firm for guidance on drafting an effective letter.
Understand FDCPA Protections
Learn what debt collectors are legally allowed to do and recognize potential violations of your rights. Many collection agencies rely on consumers being unaware of the legal limits.
Review FDCPA guidelines at the FTC website and check their debt collection FAQs to better understand your rights.
Consult a Consumer Rights Attorney
If harassment continues, talk to a consumer rights attorney who can help you pursue legal action. The Wood Law Firm has the experience and resources to fight aggressive collectors and seek the compensation you may deserve.
Related: Collection Agency Harassment
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). For over a decade, 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 come 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
Jeff Wood is an accomplished attorney based in Arkansas, where he is fully licensed to practice law. With over 15 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.
Phone Numbers Associated with Retrieval Masters Credit Bureau
These phone numbers are known to be associated with RMCB debt collection activities. Document each interaction if you receive calls from any of these numbers:
- 914-892-0055
- 800-666-8097
- 844-505-3328
- 914-345-7136
These numbers are not exclusive, as RMCB may use other numbers. Keep detailed records and be prepared to provide them if you pursue legal action. Organized efforts to document and track these phone numbers are important in identifying patterns and taking appropriate action.
Related: First National Collection Bureau Debt Collection Harassment
Legal Cases Against Retrieval Masters Credit Bureau
Several lawsuits against RMCB highlight alleged violations of consumer protection laws. Well-documented cases available on Pacer.org include:
- Elham Ghotbi v. Retrieval-Masters Creditors Bureau Inc (8:09-cv-01405-JVS-AN)
- Precise v. Retrieval-Masters Creditors Bureau Inc (3:17-cv-00009-MCR-CJK)
- Bisbee v. Retrieval-Masters Creditors Bureau Inc (3:18-cv-01595-D)
These cases emphasize that consumers have successfully fought against alleged FDCPA violations, setting precedents for holding debt collectors accountable.
Client Success Stories
Medical Debt Harassment Case
Sarah from Texas received 12 calls daily from RMCB regarding a disputed medical bill. After documenting the harassment and contacting The Wood Law Firm, we filed an FDCPA lawsuit. RMCB settled for $2,500, which included statutory damages and removal of the debt from Sarah’s credit report.
Third-Party Contact Violation
Michael in Florida discovered that RMCB contacted his employer and disclosed his debt to coworkers. We documented these violations and pursued legal action. The case settled for $3,000, and RMCB was prohibited from further contact.
Validation Request Ignored
Lisa from Ohio requested debt validation from RMCB, but continued receiving collection calls despite no validation being provided. The Wood Law Firm represented Lisa in an FDCPA claim, resulting in a $2,200 settlement and complete debt dismissal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Retrieval Masters Credit Bureau garnish my wages?
RMCB can potentially garnish wages only if they secure a court judgment against you. They must follow legal procedures and obtain court approval before wage garnishment. You have the right to defend yourself in court and may have exemptions based on your income level.
Can RMCB call me at work?
The FDCPA restricts calls to your workplace if your employer forbids such communications. Inform RMCB in writing to stop calls at work, and they must comply with your request.
Can Retrieval Masters Credit Bureau sue me for unpaid debt?
RMCB can sue to recover unpaid debts, but they must respect the statute of limitations in your state, typically 3 to 6 years for most debts. You have the right to defend yourself in court and should respond to any lawsuit papers you receive.
How can I stop RMCB phone harassment?
Send a written cease-and-desist letter, document every call or message with dates and times, and contact an attorney if harassment continues. These steps help ensure your rights under the FDCPA are protected.
Is Retrieval Masters Credit Bureau a scam?
RMCB is a legitimate debt collection agency registered and operating for over 40 years. However, many consumers report aggressive or potentially unfair collection practices that may violate the FDCPA.
Can RMCB report my debt to credit bureaus?
RMCB can report debts to credit bureaus. If you dispute the debt, RMCB must mark the account as “disputed” until the issue is resolved. As of January 2025, medical debts under $500 cannot be reported to credit bureaus.
Can Retrieval Masters Credit Bureau use threatening language?
The FDCPA prohibits harassment or threats by debt collectors. If you believe RMCB has used threatening language, save any threatening messages as evidence to support potential legal action.
Can RMCB add extra fees to my debt?
RMCB can only add fees if allowed by the original contract or state law. Adding unauthorized fees may violate consumer protection laws and could be grounds for an FDCPA complaint.
How do I verify the debt RMCB claims I owe?
Request written debt validation within 30 days of first contact. RMCB must provide proof that the debt is legitimate and belongs to you, including the amount owed, the original creditor’s name, and documentation supporting their claim.
How long can Retrieval Masters Credit Bureau try to collect a debt?
Debt collection is limited by the statute of limitations in your state, typically 3 to 6 years for most debts. After this period, the debt becomes “time-barred,” though collectors may still attempt collection.
Can RMCB threaten me with jail time?
Debt collectors cannot threaten arrest or imprisonment for unpaid debts. Any such threat violates the FDCPA and should be documented and reported immediately.
What should I do if Retrieval Masters Credit Bureau contacts my family or neighbors?
Contacting family or neighbors about your debt is illegal under the FDCPA. Document these interactions with dates, times, and witness statements, then contact an attorney to protect your privacy and rights.
Can I negotiate a settlement with RMCB?
Many debt collectors, including RMCB, may accept reduced settlements. Always get settlement agreements in writing before making any payments, and ensure the agreement specifies how the debt will be reported to credit bureaus.
Does paying RMCB remove the debt from my credit report?
Paying the debt may update the balance to zero, but the account may remain on your credit report for up to 7 years from the date of first delinquency. Negotiate “pay for delete” agreements in writing before making payments.
How can The Wood Law Firm help with Retrieval Masters Credit Bureau harassment?
The Wood Law Firm provides legal support to stop illegal collection practices and helps clients recover compensation for harassment and FDCPA violations. Contact us at +1 844-638-1122 for a free consultation to discuss your case.
Related: United Collection Bureau Debt Collection Harassment
Take Action Against Debt Collection Harassment
If you believe RMCB has employed aggressive collection tactics that may cross legal boundaries, stay informed about your rights and seek legal assistance. Consumers should proactively address harassment by documenting violations and contacting legal experts who can help navigate these situations.
The Wood Law Firm specializes in consumer rights and has years of experience assisting clients with harassment from collection agencies. Contact us at +1 844-638-1122 to understand how you can stop Retrieval Masters Credit Bureau harassment and potentially recover compensation for FDCPA violations.
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