During uncertain economic times, it’s especially important that people not only know how to manage their debt, but also their interactions with debt collectors. To remind people of their rights—and debt collectors of their obligations—the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is featuring a new video highlighting the rights of consumers whose debts have gone into collection, and the rules of behavior for debt collectors. And it has a friendly reminder that asserting your rights gives you a voice, but doesn’t make your debt disappear.
The FTC’s Money Matters website offers a wealth of information about spotting and avoiding scams and rip-offs when dealing with mortgages or loan modifications, using job placement services, and applying for credit and loans, in addition to coping with debt.