Can a Debt Collector Call Your Boss? 

When a debt collector contacts your employer, it can feel invasive, embarrassing, and even threatening. But the law offers protection. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) limits what collectors can say and how often they can reach out to third parties including your boss.

Here’s what you need to know.

What the Law Allows Debt Collectors to Do

The FDCPA permits collectors to contact third parties only to confirm your location information such as your phone number, address, or place of employment. This is outlined under 15 U.S.C. § 1692b, which also states:

“A debt collector… shall not state that such consumer owes any debt.”

In other words, they can call your workplace once to confirm where you work but they cannot say or imply that you owe money.

Collectors must:

• Identify themselves by name
• Say they’re verifying employment details

They cannot:

• Mention the debt
• Discuss financial information
• Suggest that you’re in trouble

According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB):

“A debt collector may not tell your employer that you owe a debt. If the debt collector has told your employer that you owe a debt, you may want to speak to an attorney about your rights.”

That’s a clear violation of federal law and grounds for legal action.

What If Your Workplace Doesn’t Allow Personal Calls?

If your employer doesn’t allow personal calls and you’ve informed the collector, they must stop calling you there. Learn more in our guide:
Can Debt Collectors Call You at Work?

What to Do If a Debt Collector Calls Your Boss

If a collector overstepped, take these steps immediately:

1. Talk to your employer. Ask exactly what the caller said.
2. Document the call. Note the time, date, and what was shared.
3. Tell the collector in writing that calls to your job are not allowed.
4. Contact a consumer protection attorney. You may be entitled to damages.

Can You Sue for a Debt Collector’s Call to Your Employer?

Yes. Under the FDCPA, if a collector illegally discloses your debt or contacts your boss inappropriately, you may be eligible for:

• Up to $1,000 in statutory damages
• Actual damages, including emotional distress or job-related consequences
• Free legal representation—you don’t pay unless we win

How Lemberg Law Can Help

We’ve helped more than 40,000 consumers fight back against debt collectors. We know the law. We move fast. And we don’t charge you unless we recover money for you.

• Free case evaluation
• No upfront costs
• Proven results against big collection agencies

Get a Free Case Review Today

If a debt collector crossed the line by calling your boss, we can help you enforce your rights.

Call or message us today. Your consultation is free and confidential.