Key Takeaways Commercial debt collection agencies typically charge contingency fees ranging from 15% to 50% of ...

We may receive commissions from some links to products on this page. Promotions are subject to availability and retailer terms. While weighing their options, some borrowers may stumble on an ...

Julia Kagan is a financial/consumer journalist and former senior editor, personal finance, of Investopedia. Thomas J. Brock is a CFA and CPA with more than 20 years of experience in various areas ...

It's important to know what your rights actually are when you're dealing with aggressive debt collectors.

Medical debt regulations are shifting dramatically in 2026, with states banning credit reporting and federal rules in limbo. If you’re a healthcare provider, the old collection playbook might soon ...

High-rate debt has become an increasingly common part of many people's financial lives over the last decade and the economic issues that have been looming recently, like sticky (but now cooling) ...

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau on Friday ordered Commonwealth Financial Systems, a debt collection agency specializing in medical debt, to shut down as a result of what CFPB determined were ...

The claim: It is illegal for collection agencies to buy debt and 'come after you' if you send a cease-and-desist letter A March 27 Facebook post (direct link, archive link) offers advice for consumers ...

Complaints about debt collection calls rose sharply across the country in 2025, according to new data from the Federal Trade Commission.