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A collector can contact you in person, by mail, telephone, telegram or email. However, a collector may not contact you at unreasonable times or places, such as before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m., unless you agree. A debt collector also may not contact you at work if the collector knows that your employer disapproves.

The Illinois Collection Agency Act requires debt collectors to get a license and regulates how they can communicate with debtors. In Illinois, both the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) and the Illinois Collection Agency Act (ICAA) regulate debt collectors.

You have the right to send what's referred to as a ?drop dead letter. '' It's a cease-and-desist motion that will prevent the collector from contacting you again about the debt. Be aware that you still owe the money, and you can be sued for the debt.

Don't provide personal or sensitive financial information Never give out or confirm personal or sensitive financial information ? such as your bank account, credit card, or full Social Security number ? unless you know the company or person you are talking with is a real debt collector.

A person is considered a collection proof debtor if they meet the following requirements: They have no income, their take-home pay from work is below $585 a week, or their income is from a protected source, like: ... If they own real estate, the amount of equity is below $15,000 (or $30,000 for two married owners),

Don't pay, don't promise to pay and don't give any payment information the collector may use later. Ask for information on the debt and say you'll call back to discuss it later. Making a single payment ? even just $5 or $10 ? is an acknowledgment of the debt and can have serious repercussions.