On this page
What's next
Earn a high-yield savings rate with JG Wentworth Debt Relief
If you’ve ever dealt with debt collectors, you know how overwhelming the experience can be. Constant phone calls, confusing messages, and aggressive tactics have long plagued consumers trying to manage their financial obligations. But significant changes to federal debt collection laws are now protecting consumers in ways that simply didn’t exist before.
In November 2021, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) implemented sweeping updates to debt collection practices through Regulation F, modernizing a law that hadn’t been substantially revised since 1977. These changes address everything from how often collectors can contact you to their use of modern communication channels like text messages and social media.
Understanding these protections isn’t just helpful—it’s essential for anyone navigating debt collection. Whether you’re currently dealing with collectors or want to know your rights for the future, this guide breaks down what Regulation F means for you.*
*JG Wentworth does not pay or assume any debts or provide legal, financial, tax advice, or credit repair services. You should consult with independent professionals for such advice or services. Please consult with a bankruptcy attorney for information on bankruptcy.
What is Regulation F?
Regulation F represents the CFPB’s comprehensive update to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), the foundational federal law governing debt collection. The FDCPA was originally enacted in 1977 to protect consumers from abusive, deceptive, and unfair debt collection practices. However, four decades of technological advancement created a regulatory gap.
The original law never contemplated email, text messages, social media, or the digital communication methods that dominate modern life. Regulation F bridges this gap, providing clear rules for debt collectors operating in today’s digital landscape while strengthening consumer protections across all communication channels.
The regulation applies to third-party debt collectors—including collection agencies, debt buyers, and collection law firms—but generally doesn’t cover original creditors collecting their own debts. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau implemented these rules to create a “debt collection system that works for consumers and industry in the modern world.”
Take your next step towards being debt-free
"*" indicates required fields
The 7-7-7 rule: Call frequency limits
Perhaps the most talked-about provision of Regulation F is the “7-7-7 rule” or “7-in-7 rule,” which establishes clear limits on how often debt collectors can call you. Before this rule, collectors operated in a gray area where “excessive” contact was prohibited but never clearly defined.
Under the 7-7-7 rule established by the CFPB, debt collectors are presumed to violate the law if they:
- Make more than seven telephone calls within a seven-day period about a particular debt, or
- Call you within seven days after having a telephone conversation with you about that specific debt
This “cooling off” period gives you breathing room between contacts and prevents collectors from maintaining constant pressure through repeated conversations. It’s important to understand that this rule applies to each debt individually. If you have multiple debts in collection, a collector can call up to seven times per week for each separate debt—but must still follow the seven-day waiting period after speaking with you about each one.
- What counts as a call? The regulation is comprehensive: missed calls, voicemails, and attempted calls all count toward the seven-call limit. Even if you don’t answer, each attempt counts. However, there are exceptions. Calls required by law, calls you specifically request, and calls you consent to within a seven-day period don’t count toward the limit.
- The seven-day periods are rolling, not based on calendar weeks. If a collector makes their first call on a Tuesday, subsequent calls on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, two calls on Saturday, and one on Sunday total seven calls. A call on Monday would be the eighth call within seven consecutive days and would violate the rule.
It’s worth noting that while these frequency limits only apply to telephone calls, not emails or texts, the CFPB has made clear it will review the cumulative effect of all communication methods to ensure they don’t result in harassment.
Digital communication (text messages & emails)
When the FDCPA was passed in 1977, debt collectors primarily used phone calls, letters, and telegrams. The concept of sliding into someone’s DMs to collect a debt would have seemed like science fiction. Yet that’s precisely what Regulation F now permits, with important safeguards.
Under the new rules, debt collectors can contact you through:
Text messages: Collectors can send text messages to your mobile phone, but every message must include clear instructions for opting out. The opt-out method must be simple—typically allowing you to reply “STOP” or click an unsubscribe link. Unlike phone calls, there’s no numerical limit on texts, but the overall volume still can’t constitute harassment.
Email: Debt collectors can email you about a debt, with the same opt-out requirements as text messages. However, there are important workplace protections. Collectors generally cannot email you at a work email address if they know it’s provided by your employer. The exception is if you used that work email to communicate with the collector about the debt.
Social media: This is where things get particularly modern—and potentially concerning for privacy advocates. Collectors can contact you through platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and other social networks, but only through private messages. They cannot:
- Post publicly on your page or timeline
- Send messages viewable by your friends, contacts, or followers
- Hide their identity—if they send a friend request, they must identify themselves as a debt collector in that request
Every electronic communication must include a “clear and conspicuous” opt-out method. The CFPB’s guidance suggests using language like “Reply STOP to stop texts to this telephone number” or “Click here to opt out of further emails to this email address.” These opt-out mechanisms must be free—collectors can’t charge you to stop receiving messages.
One critical consumer protection: you have the right to opt out of specific communication channels while remaining contactable through others. For example, you can opt out of texts while still accepting phone calls, or opt out of social media while still receiving letters.
Updated debt validation notices
When a debt collector first contacts you, or shortly after, they must provide you with specific information about the debt. This is called a debt validation notice, and Regulation F significantly expanded what must be included.
The Model Validation Notice requirements create a standardized format that helps you identify whether you actually owe a debt and whether the collector’s information is accurate. The notice must include:
Basic identification information:
- A statement that the communication is from a debt collector
- Your name and mailing address
- The debt collector’s name and mailing address
- Information about the current creditor (who you owe the money to now)
Debt-specific details:
- The name of the original creditor, if different from the current one
- An account number, or if there isn’t one, information to help you identify the debt
- The current amount of the debt as of the date the notice is provided
- An itemization showing how the current amount breaks down, including interest, fees, payments, and credits since a particular date
- That itemization date (which could be the date of your last statement, the charge-off date, your last payment date, the transaction date, or a judgment date)
Your rights and response options:
- Information about your right to dispute the debt
- How to dispute the debt or request information about the original creditor
- A clear statement that you have 30 days from receiving the notice to dispute the debt in writing
- A “tear-off” form you can send back to dispute the debt or take other actions
Collectors must send this validation notice within five days of their initial communication with you. This timing is critical because it starts your 30-day window to dispute the debt. If you send a written dispute within those 30 days, the collector must pause collection efforts until they provide verification of the debt.
The CFPB created a model validation notice that collectors can use to ensure compliance. While using this exact form isn’t required, collectors who do use it receive “safe harbor” protection—meaning they’re presumed to be complying with the law’s formatting and content requirements.
How Regulation F protects consumers
The protections in Regulation F extend far beyond just limiting calls and defining validation notices. The regulation creates a comprehensive framework designed to prevent harassment while giving you real control over debt collection communications.
Opt-out rights for digital communications
One of the most significant consumer protections is the ability to control how and where collectors contact you. Every electronic communication—whether email, text, or social media message—must include a simple, free opt-out mechanism. This isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a legal requirement.
The opt-out must be “reasonable and simple.” The CFPB has indicated that requiring consumers to pay fees, provide extensive information, or navigate complex processes to opt out would violate the rule. In practice, this means collectors typically use reply-to-opt-out systems for texts (replying “STOP”) or clickable links for emails and social media.
Importantly, opting out of one communication channel doesn’t stop all collection efforts. If you opt out of texts, the collector can still call you or send letters—unless you’ve also opted out of those methods or sent a cease communication letter under the FDCPA.
Prohibition on harassment and abuse
While the 7-7-7 rule creates a presumption of violation for excessive calls, Regulation F maintains and clarifies the FDCPA’s broader prohibitions against harassment, abuse, and unfair practices. Debt collectors cannot:
- Use obscene, profane, or abusive language
- Threaten violence or harm
- Publish your name on a “bad debt” list (except to credit bureaus)
- Call repeatedly with intent to annoy, abuse, or harass
- Contact you at times they know are inconvenient (generally before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m. in your local time zone)
- Contact you at work if they know your employer prohibits such calls
- Falsely represent the amount you owe
- Falsely claim to be attorneys or government representatives
- Threaten actions they don’t intend to take or aren’t legally allowed to take
The regulation also prohibits collectors from placing telephone calls without meaningful disclosure of the caller’s identity. In other words, they can’t use deceptive tactics to get you to answer or call back.
Credit reporting restrictions
Before reporting your debt to credit bureaus, collectors must take specific steps. They must either:
- Speak with you by telephone or in person about the debt, or
- Mail a letter or send electronic communication about the debt and wait a reasonable amount of time (generally 14 days) to see if it’s returned as undeliverable
This requirement helps prevent situations where debts are reported to credit bureaus before consumers even know collection efforts are underway.
Limited-content messages
Regulation F created a special category called “limited-content messages” for voicemails. These are messages that don’t reveal the debt to third parties who might hear them. A limited-content message must include:
- A business name that doesn’t indicate you’re a debt collector
- A telephone number to return the call
- A request for a reply
- The name(s) of people the consumer can contact
These messages cannot include any reference to a debt. While limited-content messages still count toward the seven-call limit, they provide a way for collectors to leave callback information without violating privacy protections.
Deceased consumer protections
Regulation F also addresses debt collection involving deceased individuals. If a collector knows or should know that a consumer is deceased, they must direct validation notices to a named personal representative of the estate—not simply to “the estate of” or family members generally. This prevents collectors from inappropriately contacting grieving family members who may not have any legal obligation to pay the deceased person’s debts.
Understanding your rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act
While Regulation F modernizes debt collection practices, it operates within the broader framework of the FDCPA. Understanding your fundamental rights under this law is essential:
- You can request validation: Always ask for written verification if you’re unsure whether a debt is legitimate. Collectors must provide this information, and they must pause collection efforts while verifying.
- You can dispute debts: If you believe you don’t owe the debt or the amount is wrong, dispute it in writing within 30 days of receiving the validation notice. The collector must investigate and provide verification before resuming collection.
- You can limit or stop contact: You have the right to send a written cease communication letter demanding the collector stop contacting you. After receiving this letter, the collector can only contact you to confirm they’re stopping efforts or to notify you of specific actions like filing a lawsuit.
- You have recourse for violations: If a collector violates the FDCPA or Regulation F, you can file a complaint with the CFPB, report them to your state attorney general, and potentially sue for damages. Successful lawsuits can result in monetary damages up to $1,000, plus attorney’s fees and court costs.
- You’re protected from deception: Collectors can’t lie about the amount you owe, who they are, or the consequences of not paying. They can’t threaten actions they won’t actually take.
Practical steps to protect yourself
Armed with knowledge of Regulation F, here are concrete actions you can take:
- Document everything: Keep records of all communication with debt collectors, including dates, times, names, and what was discussed. Save emails and text messages. Note every phone call.
- Request validation early: Don’t assume a debt is legitimate just because someone contacts you about it. Request validation information to confirm the debt is yours and the amount is correct.
- Use your opt-out rights: If you prefer certain communication methods, opt out of others. Want letters but not calls? Opt out of calls. Prefer email? Opt out of texts and social media.
- Know the timing rules: Remember the 30-day window to dispute debts and the seven-day cooling off period after phone conversations. Use these timeframes strategically.
- Be wary of scams: The new rules create opportunities for scammers posing as debt collectors. Never share financial information with someone who contacts you unexpectedly. Always verify the collector’s legitimacy before engaging.
- Get it in writing: If you’re negotiating a settlement or payment plan, get the agreement in writing before making any payments.
- Know when to get help: If you’re dealing with aggressive collectors, receiving threats, or facing a lawsuit, consider consulting with a consumer law attorney. Many offer free consultations and work on contingency for FDCPA cases.
The bottom line
Regulation F represents the most significant update to debt collection laws in over four decades. While it brings debt collection practices into the modern digital age, it also provides stronger, clearer protections for consumers dealing with the stress of collection efforts.
However, knowledge alone isn’t enough—you need to actively exercise your rights. Document interactions, request validation, use opt-out mechanisms, and don’t hesitate to file complaints or seek legal help when collectors cross the line. The protections exist, but only you can enforce them for your situation.
Debt collection will likely never be pleasant, but thanks to Regulation F, it should at least be fair, transparent, and respectful of your rights as a consumer.
There’s always JG Wentworth…
Do you have $10,000 or more in unsecured debt? If so, there’s a good chance you’ll qualify for the JG Wentworth Debt Relief Program.* Some of our program perks include:
- One monthly program payment
- We negotiate on your behalf
- Average debt resolution in as little as 24-60 months
- We only get paid when we settle your debt
- Some clients save up to 46% before program fees
If you think you qualify for our program, give us a call today so we can go over the best options for your specific financial needs. Why go it alone when you can have a dedicated team on your side?
SOURCES CITED
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. (2020). “Debt Collection Practices (Regulation F).” Retrieved from https://www.consumerfinance.gov/rules-policy/final-rules/debt-collection-practices-regulation-f/
- Consumer Action. (2021). “Here’s what you should know about the CFPB’s new debt collection rule.”
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. (2023). “Understand how the CFPB’s Debt Collection Rule impacts you.” Retrieved from https://www.consumerfinance.gov/about-us/blog/understand-how-cfpb-debt-collection-rule-impacts-you/
- CBS News. (2024). “What is the 7-in-7 rule with credit card debt collectors?” Retrieved from https://www.cbsnews.com/news/what-is-the-7-in-7-rule-with-credit-card-debt-collectors/
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. (2024). “What information does a debt collector have to give me about a debt they’re trying to collect from me?” Retrieved from https://www.consumerfinance.gov/ask-cfpb/what-information-does-a-debt-collector-have-to-give-me-about-the-debt-en-331/
- Tratta. “Model Validation Notice: New Rules and Guidance for Debt Collection.” Retrieved from https://www.tratta.io/blog/model-validation-notice
- NPR. (2021). “Debt collectors can now text you, email you and DM you on social media.” Retrieved from https://www.npr.org/2021/12/02/1060597759/debt-collectors-can-now-text-email-and-dm-you-on-social-media
About the author
Recommended reading for you
* Program length varies depending on individual situation. Programs are between 24 and 60 months in length. Clients who are able to stay with the program and get all their debt settled realize approximate savings of 43% before our 25% program fee. This is a Debt resolution program provided by JGW Debt Settlement, LLC (“JGW” of “Us”)). JGW offers this program in the following states: AL, AK, AZ, AR, CA, CO, FL, ID, IN, IA, KY, LA, MD, MA, MI, MS, MO, MT, NE, NM, NV, NY, NC, OK, PA, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, DC, and WI. If a consumer residing in CT, GA, HI, IL, KS, ME, NH, NJ, OH, RI, SC and VT contacts Us we may connect them with a law firm that provides debt resolution services in their state. JGW is licensed/registered to provide debt resolution services in states where licensing/registration is required.
Debt resolution program results will vary by individual situation. As such, debt resolution services are not appropriate for everyone. Not all debts are eligible for enrollment. Not all individuals who enroll complete our program for various reasons, including their ability to save sufficient funds. Savings resulting from successful negotiations may result in tax consequences, please consult with a tax professional regarding these consequences. The use of the debt settlement services and the failure to make payments to creditors: (1) Will likely adversely affect your creditworthiness (credit rating/credit score) and make it harder to obtain credit; (2) May result in your being subject to collections or being sued by creditors or debt collectors; and (3) May increase the amount of money you owe due to the accrual of fees and interest by creditors or debt collectors. Failure to pay your monthly bills in a timely manner will result in increased balances and will harm your credit rating. Not all creditors will agree to reduce principal balance, and they may pursue collection, including lawsuits. JGW’s fees are calculated based on a percentage of the debt enrolled in the program. Read and understand the program agreement prior to enrollment.
This information is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Such information or materials do not constitute and are not intended to provide legal, accounting, or tax advice and should not be relied on in that respect. We suggest that you consult an attorney, accountant, and/or financial advisor to answer any financial or legal questions.
