Know your rights

The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) is a federal law that makes it illegal for debt collectors to harass, threaten, or deceive you. Georgia's Fair Business Practices Act adds further protection. If a collector broke these rules, you may be owed money — and they may have to pay your attorney's fees.

The Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) restricts autodialed calls, prerecorded messages, and unsolicited texts to your cell phone without your consent. Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 46-5-27) adds state-level protection. Each illegal call or text can be worth $500 to $1,500.

The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requires credit bureaus and the companies that report to them to keep your credit information accurate. When they don't — and it costs you a loan, a job, or an apartment — you have the right to hold them accountable.