Debt collection agency
A debt collection agency is a firm that contacts people to recover debts, either on behalf of the original creditor or after buying the debt.
Also known as: debt collector, debt collectors, debt collection agencies
Collection firms must be authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority, follow its rules and treat you fairly. They cannot harass you, threaten you or pretend to be bailiffs. They have no special legal powers beyond those of the original creditor, and they cannot enter your home or take goods without a court order.
Ask for proof that the debt is yours and for details of the amount. You should deal with a genuine debt, but check it first, and get advice if the collector is pressuring you.
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7 min readReadThis page provides general information only. It is not personalised financial, legal or tax advice, and rules and figures can change. Your situation is unique — please check official sources such as GOV.UK and MoneyHelper, and speak to a qualified, FCA-authorised adviser before making important decisions about your money.