Harrassing phone calls

Why do creditors call?

The approach creditors take when they call varies and some will be understanding and supportive if you explain your difficulties. However, this is not the case for all creditors and some may seem unsympathetic. The purpose of these calls is to obtain payment or set up a payment plan. Unreputable lenders may respond with threats of further action if payments are not made, they may also exaggerate the consequences if you don't pay. Common scare tactics range from threatening damage to your credit score to court action and ultimately sending bailiffs to your door. However, many of these threats are just effective ways of pressuring you into making payments you may not be able to comfortably afford.

 

Any reputable lender will consider a reasonable settlement and give you a 'breathing space' of 30 days to get debt advice or legal representation. Communication and not ignoring problems is key, by simply explaining the problem they may be happy to work with you to find a mutually acceptable solution.

 

What should I do when a creditor calls me?

Simply and calmly explain the situation to your creditors. Remember, you don't have to speak to them if you don't want to. Instead, you can ask them to call at a later date once you have obtained legal advice, if we are handling the matter for you then you can simply refer them to us. In any case, it is suggested that you retain any letters you might receive.

 

How often can they call me?

If your creditors call you too often, it can be tantamount to harassment. This is a legally grey area but if you feel the number of calls you are getting is unreasonable, you can ask them to stop.

 

What times can creditors call me?

Your creditors should not call you at 'unreasonable' times. If you can't take calls at certain times of the day, then tell your creditors. They should keep a record of this and avoid calling you at these times. You can make a complaint if they keep calling at times you've told them to avoid.

 

Can my creditors speak to anyone else?

Your creditors can't discuss your debt with anyone apart from you unless you've permitted it. If your debt is in joint names, they can talk to either person involved. If someone else answers the phone, your creditor can ask to speak to you, but cannot give any other information on the matter.

 

Can my creditors call me at work?

If you gave a work number on the application form when you took out a debt, your creditor could contact you through it. However, if you tell them you don't want to receive calls at work, they must stop using the number.

 

Using Lestons as a mediator

Phone calls from your creditors are a warning sign that you may be struggling to manage your debts. We can’t stop your creditors calling you but we can help you put together a household budget and work out the best way to deal with your debts. We would then contact your creditors to propose a workable solution. Lestons have specialist staff who can contact the lender for you and if instructed we can receive calls on your behalf. 

 

How we can help

Creditors are usually fair at resolving problems, however, if you do encounter any issues then Lestons have specialist staff to liaise with them to try and remedy the situation. To gain our assistance you need to open a case, this is done by simply clicking on the link at the top of the page, you will then need to deposit a sum equal to one hour’s usage, upon receipt of these funds you will be assigned your personal caseworker who will telephone you to discuss the matter and make suggestions on how to proceed. Please note your caseworker is not legally trained and can only give generic advice, their role is to prepare your details for handling by our trainee and qualified solicitors and to act as your point of contact, they will also issue you with your Password and PIN, these will be needed to log onto your client dashboard. From your dashboard you will be able to manage and view every aspect of your case, send us scans of call logs etc.