Federal law gives you a few powerful tools to fight back against unfair practices by debt collectors. Getty Images/iStockphoto

When a debt collector reaches out, it can be unsettling, even if you knew that you'd defaulted on your obligations and were expecting the call. Between the pressure to pay, the perceived urgency of the situation and the frequency of the debt collection attempts , this situation can feel more intimidating than it otherwise should. But the reality is that debt collectors don't hold all the power, even when you're behind on your debts.

Debt collection is simply a routine part of the credit ecosystem, especially in tough economic landscapes, like the one we're facing right now. Between credit card balances sitting at a collective record-high , default rat

See Full Page