Stopping a Debt Collector in Oregon
A debt collector keeps calling me — here's what Oregon law says and what to do next.
Statute: Or. Rev. Stat. § 646.639 (Oregon Unlawful Debt Collection Practices Act)
Deadline: 2190 days
Penalty: Violations may result in actual damages of $200 minimum, punitive damages, and attorney fees under Oregon's debt collection law
What is stopping a debt collector?
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) is a federal law that limits what debt collectors can do when trying to collect money from you. It covers third-party collectors — companies that buy or collect debts on behalf of someone else — not the original creditor.
Under the FDCPA, debt collectors cannot harass you, lie to you, or use unfair tactics. They cannot call you before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m., threaten violence, use profane language, or tell other people about your debt. You also have the right to tell a collector to stop contacting you entirely by sending a written request.
What to Do If a Debt Collector Is Harassing You
Step 1: Ask the collector for a "debt validation letter." Under the FDCPA (15 U.S.C. § 1692g), the collector must send you written notice within five days of first contact that includes the amount of the debt, the name of the creditor, and your right to dispute it.
Step 2: If you do not believe you owe the debt, send a written dispute within 30 days of receiving the validation notice. Send it by certified mail with return receipt requested. The collector must stop collection efforts until they verify the debt.
Step 3: Keep records. Save every letter, write down the date and time of every call, and note what the collector said. This documentation is critical if you need to file a complaint or lawsuit.
Step 4: If you want the calls to stop, send a cease-and-desist letter by certified mail. Once they receive it, they must stop contacting you (with limited exceptions for legal notices).
Step 5: File a complaint with the CFPB at consumerfinance.gov/complaint or call (855) 411-2372. You can also file with your state attorney general.
How Oregon differs from federal law
Oregon regulates debt collection under the Oregon Unfair Debt Collection Practices Act (UDCPA):
- The UDCPA (ORS § 646.639) prohibits abusive, deceptive, and unfair collection practices — similar to the federal FDCPA but applicable to original creditors too
- Oregon's statute of limitations on most consumer debts is 6 years
- Oregon provides strong wage garnishment protections — the lesser of 25% of disposable earnings or the amount exceeding $254/week
- Oregon's Unlawful Trade Practices Act provides additional consumer protections
Additional steps in Oregon
File with the Oregon DOJ Consumer Protection at (877) 877-9392 or doj.state.or.us. Also file with the CFPB.
What you should NOT do
Don't ignore debt collectors entirely. While you have the right to stop contact, ignoring a legitimate debt could lead to a lawsuit, wage garnishment, or damage to your credit score. Understand what you owe before deciding your next step.
Don't give personal financial information over the phone. Scammers often pose as debt collectors. Never give your bank account number, Social Security number, or credit card number to someone who calls you about a debt.
Don't make a payment on very old debt without understanding the consequences. In many states, making even a small payment on a time-barred debt can restart the statute of limitations, giving the collector the right to sue you again.
Don't agree to a payment plan you cannot afford. Collectors may pressure you into committing to payments that stretch your budget. You are not required to agree to their terms — you can negotiate or seek help from a nonprofit credit counselor.
Don't wait — the clock is ticking.
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Generate your debt validation →This page is general legal information for Oregon, not legal advice for your specific situation. Laws change, and how a statute applies depends on facts we don't know. For advice on your matter, consult a licensed attorney in Oregon.