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The Daily Insight Hub

Can a debt collector contact a minor?

Author

Rachel Davis

Updated on January 22, 2026

Any debt collector that specifically contacts a minor child is in violation of FDCPA regulations, unless the child’s name is on the debt along with your own. If a debt collector sends notices in the mail that identify the communication as a debt collection effort, they’ve broken the law.

Why do debt collectors call family members?

There are a variety of reasons why a debt collector might call your family. But the most common reason is that they have not been able to get in touch with you. Sometimes a debt collector may believe that contacting your family will push you to pay off the debt.

What to do if a debt collector is calling your family?

Either way, if your a debt collector is calling your family or friends, or if you are receiving debt collection calls about a family member or friend, you should contact a consumer rights attorney immediately to understand your rights and options under the FDCPA.

Who are debt collectors on behalf of the creditor?

Debt collectors acting on behalf of the creditor If a creditor is finding it difficult to collect a debt, they might pay a company which specialises in this to try and contact you. These are usually known as debt collection agencies or debt collectors.

What happens when debt is assigned to a collection agency?

If the debt is assigned to a collection agency, but still owned by the creditor, generally, the collection agency can’t sue you without the original creditor’s authorization. If the original creditor insists that the agency collect 100% of the debt, the agency can’t accept less from you without getting the original creditor’s okay.

What happens if you dont pay a debt collector?

If you don’t make your debt payments, a debt collector may contact you to collect money that you owe on a credit card, line of credit, or loan. Your creditor, that is, the company that you owe money to, may try to get their money back by: using its own debt collection department if it has one