If you're receiving persistent or aggressive calls from Progressive Management Systems (PMS), it's essential to understand your rights and take appropriate action. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate this situation.
What Is Progressive Management Systems?
Progressive Management Systems is a debt collection agency based in West Covina, California. They collect debts on behalf of various creditors, including healthcare providers, banks, credit unions, credit card companies, and government agencies. While PMS is a legitimate business, many consumers have reported aggressive or unlawful collection practices.
Common Harassment Tactics
Debt collection crosses the line into harassment when it is persistent, threatening, or abusive. Consumers have reported the following tactics from PMS:
Excessive Phone Calls: Multiple calls per day, often during early mornings, evenings, or weekends.
Threats of Legal Action: Claiming lawsuits, wage garnishments, or arrest without legal basis.
Contacting Third Parties: Calling family members, friends, or coworkers about your debt.
Use of Abusive Language: Employing offensive or profane language.
Failure to Provide Debt Validation: Not providing proof of the debt upon request.
If PMS exhibits any of these behaviors, they may be violating the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA).
Your Rights Under the FDCPA
The FDCPA protects consumers from abusive debt collection tactics. Your rights include:
Request Debt Verification: You can demand written proof that the debt is yours and legally collectible.
Limit Communications: You can request that PMS stop contacting you by phone, except for legal notices.
Take Legal Action: Violations of the FDCPA allow you to sue for statutory damages and attorney fees.
Protect Your Privacy: Debt collectors cannot share your personal information with anyone except you or your attorney.
Steps to Take If You're Being Harassed
Document All Communications: Keep a detailed record of all interactions with PMS, including dates, times, and the nature of the conversation.
Send a Cease and Desist Letter: Formally request that PMS stop contacting you. Send this letter via certified mail and keep a copy for your records.
Request Debt Validation: Ask PMS to provide written proof of the debt. They are legally required to do so upon request.
File Complaints: Report the harassment to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), your State Attorney General, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Consult an Attorney: Seek legal advice to understand your options and possibly pursue a lawsuit against PMS for violations of the FDCPA.
Contact Information
If you need to reach Progressive Management Systems, you can contact them at:
Phone: (866) 767-1035
Address: P.O. Box 1445, West Covina, CA 91793
Conclusion
Dealing with debt collection harassment can be stressful, but it's important to know that you have rights and options. By understanding these rights and taking proactive steps, you can protect yourself from unlawful debt collection practices. If you need assistance, consider consulting with a consumer rights attorney to explore your options.