Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, what can a debtor claim against a debt collector for using aggressive tactics?

A debtor can claim treble damages (which means three times the amount of actual damages) or statutory damages of $1,000, whichever amount is greater, against a debt collector for using aggressive or illegal tactics under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). This provision is designed to discourage unscrupulous behavior by debt collectors and to provide a strong incentive for them to comply with the law.

The treble damages reflect the Act's intent to punish particularly egregious conduct and to provide adequate compensation to debtors who may suffer from harassment or unfair practices. The option for statutory damages ensures that even if the debtor does not have quantifiable actual damages, they can still recover a fixed amount as a remedy. This creates a more robust framework for protecting consumers from abusive debt collection practices and reinforces the rights of debtors.