How to stop harassing creditor telephone calls

Effective steps to protect yourself

If your phone rings with relentless calls from creditors, you’re not alone — and you’re not without options. Creditor harassment can take a serious toll on your well-being, but you have rights, and there are clear steps you can take to stop the calls and regain control. 

Whether you’re facing mounting bills or just need breathing room, here’s how to protect yourself and move forward with confidence. 

Understanding your rights

When dealing with creditors, it’s important to know your rights. In Canada, debt collectors must follow strict rules under federal and provincial laws. While the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) applies in the U.S., Canadian debt collection practices are governed by consumer protection legislation specific to each province and territory. These rules prevent creditors from harassing, threatening, or calling you at unreasonable hours. They also give you the right to dispute the debt and request verification.    

Document every call

Keep detailed records of every communication you receive. Write down the date and time, who called, which company they represent, and what they said. This documentation is key if you ever need to report the harassment or take legal action.  

Request written communication

You have the right to ask creditors to stop calling you and to contact you only in writing. Send a written request by mail or email, asking that all future communication be in writing. This can reduce the stress of constant phone calls and give you a clear record of all interactions.  

Send a cease and desist letter

If the calls continue, consider sending a formal cease and desist letter to the creditor. This letter demands that the creditor to stop contacting you by phone. Send it via certified mail and keep a copy for your records. Once received, the creditor is legally required to stop calling you — though they may still contact you in writing or take legal steps to recover the debt.   

Contact a consumer protection agency

If the calls persist, reach out to your provincial consumer protection office or the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada. Provide them with your documentation and explain what’s happening. These agencies can investigate and take action against collectors who violate the rules. 

Consult an attorney

If you’re unsure how to proceed or feel overwhelmed, speak to a lawyer who focuses on debt collection or consumer protection. They can help you understand your rights, draft proper communications, and represent you if needed.  

Explore debt management solutions

Sometimes, the best way to stop the calls is to tackle the debt itself. You might consider debt management solutions such as credit counselling, debt consolidation, or negotiating directly with your creditors.

Another step is to meet with a Licensed Insolvency Trustee (LIT) — the only professional in Canada legally authorized to administer government-regulated debt solutions like consumer proposals or bankruptcy. A LIT will help you explore your options and determine the most effective path to becoming debt-free.

You don’t have to deal with creditor harassment alone. By taking action — even one step at a time — you can protect your peace of mind and move toward a stronger financial future.

To learn more about tax debt relief options, contact a Licensed Insolvency Trustee at MNP for a free consultation.