Death, Sex & Money
A Former Debt Collector's Unpaid Bills
Aug 6, 2024
Angela, a former debt collector with 15 years in the industry, shares her journey from collector to debtor after being banned for unethical practices. She reflects on the surprising realization that people struggle to pay their bills and the emotional toll of the job. Angela discusses the irony of now receiving calls from collectors herself and critiques their approaches. With a newfound perspective, she emphasizes the complexity of financial struggles and her aspirations for overcoming debt while navigating the moral dilemmas that plagued her former career.
37:08
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Quick takeaways
- Angela's journey from a debt collector who honed her negotiation skills highlights the emotional complexities and moral implications of the industry.
- Recent shifts in debt collection practices and federal scrutiny reflect a changing landscape for consumers, impacting how debts are reported and collected.
Deep dives
The Decline of Debt in Collections
The percentage of Americans with debt in collections has decreased significantly, dropping from nine percent before the pandemic to five percent by late 2023. This change is attributed to various factors, including the pause on student loan payments and COVID-era financial support that provided individuals with extra funds to manage their debt. With over $20 billion generated by debt collectors in 2023, the industry has faced increased scrutiny from the Federal Trade Commission due to numerous consumer complaints about illegal practices. Notably, recent changes by major credit bureaus, which no longer account for medical debt collections under $500, have dramatically shifted the landscape of reported debts.
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