If you have past-due debts or if you are being accused of owing a debt that isn’t yours, there are resources available to help you. In 1978, the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) was enacted to prevent the harassment of consumers by third-party debt collectors. This also protects the loved ones of the consumers, such as friends and family, who are often harassed because of the debt as well. Despite the strict laws, not all collection agencies adhere to the FDCPA. If you think Atlantic Credit and Finance misrepresented themselves while collecting the debt, you may be able to file an FDCPA claim against Atlantic Credit and Finance.
About Atlantic Credit and Finance
Atlantic Credit & Finance is a third-party collection agency. Established in 1996, company headquarters are in Roanoke, Virginia. The company, also known as ACF, uses letters, robocalls, phone calls, and lawsuits in the collections process. The business is not accredited by the Better Business Bureau but has a B rating with the BBB. It has had 102 complaints closed in the last 3 years and 39 complaints closed in the last year. These complaints are for billing and collection issues, which include not properly validating the debt for the consumer and misrepresenting themselves and the debts they are collecting.
What Counts As Misrepresentation?
When Atlantic Credit and Finance call you, they must be factual about the process and identify themselves. The collector cannot misrepresent themselves, and must clearly indicate the debt status, the legal repercussions for failure to pay, and the statute of limitations for the collections process. The representative must indicate who they are and the company that they are with. They cannot claim to be a law enforcement officer or allege that they are with the IRS or any other government agency. If Atlantic Credit and Finance misrepresent themselves, you may be eligible to pursue a claim against them and recover damages.
Damages That You May Be Entitled To Receive
If the court rules in your favor in your case against Atlantic Credit and Finance, you can recover statutory damages of up to $1,000. The court could choose to award actual damages, including physical and emotional damages. You can also recover lost wages and garnished wages. The court could decide that Atlantic Credit and Finance is responsible for your legal fees. You may be able to recover some physical damages that are easily proven, such as stress-induced heart problems, rashes, and severe headaches.
![Did Atlantic Credit and Finance Misrepresent Themselves?*]()
End The Threats Today
If you believe that Atlantic Credit and Finance misrepresented themselves while collecting a debt, there are legal repercussions. Talk with an FDCPA lawyer who focuses on creditor harassment cases in your area. You have rights, and you can stop the collection harassment from Atlantic Credit and Finance. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form so you can connect an FDCPA attorney who handles consumer law matters in your area.
Additional Resources
*Disclaimer: The content of this article serves only to provide information and should not be construed as legal advice. If you file a claim against Atlantic Credit and Finance or any other third-party collection agency, you may not be entitled to compensation.