Texas · FDCPA Cease & Desist
How to Stop Debt Collector Calls in Texas
Texas residents have both federal and state protections against abusive debt collectors. The FDCPA (15 U.S.C. § 1692c(c)) requires any third-party collector to honor a written cease-communication request. The Texas Debt Collection Act (Tex. Fin. Code § 392) provides parallel protections and authorizes additional remedies including injunctions and per-violation damages through the Texas attorney general or private lawsuit.
Texas's Debt Collection Act adds state-level enforcement on top of FDCPA, violations allow injunctive relief and per-violation damages.
Federal law
15 U.S.C. § 1692c(c) (FDCPA)
Texas state law
Texas Debt Collection Act
Tex. Fin. Code § 392.202
Texas-Specific Protections
Texas's Debt Collection Act (Tex. Fin. Code § 392) mirrors many FDCPA protections and applies to a broader set of collectors. Violations allow you to sue for actual damages plus up to $100 per violation, attorney's fees, and injunctive relief under Tex. Fin. Code § 392.403.
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Auto-cites 15 U.S.C. § 1692c(c) (FDCPA) and Tex. Fin. Code § 392.202. Formatted for USPS Certified Mail. Instant PDF download.
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Texas Debt Collector Cease & Desist FAQs
What's the difference between the FDCPA and Texas's debt collection law?▾
The FDCPA applies nationally to third-party collectors. The Texas Debt Collection Act (Tex. Fin. Code § 392) applies to a broader category of 'debt collectors' in Texas and grants rights to seek injunctive relief in addition to damages, a remedy not available under the federal FDCPA alone.
What happens after a debt collector receives my cease-and-desist in Texas?▾
Under both the FDCPA and Texas Debt Collection Act, the collector must immediately cease all contact except to confirm they will stop, inform you of specific intended legal action, or terminate the collection effort. Continuing to call is a per-violation offense.
Do I need a lawyer to send a cease-and-desist letter?▾
No for sending the letter. If the collector continues contacting you after receiving your cease-and-desist, that's a FDCPA/TDCA violation and a consumer protection attorney will typically take your case on contingency.
Does a cease-and-desist letter actually stop debt collectors in Texas?▾
Yes. Texas collectors know that ignoring a cease-and-desist letter creates federal and state liability. Most stop contact immediately upon receiving written notice.
Cease & desist rights by state
Laws change. Verify current rules with a consumer protection attorney or your state AG. kweldoc is a document drafting tool, not a law firm.