Canadian Consumers Whine About Collectors the Most in 2006

Much like here in our own country, our Canadian neighbors – or, should I say, neighbours — to the North aren’t fond of debt collectors, either.  In 2006, debt collectors topped the list of the most complaints and inquiries fielded by the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Authority of B.C. While the two countries may not agree on things like Universal Healthcare or hockey, they can agree, as consumers, that they have no love for collection agencies. 

Like the U.S.’s FDCPA, Canada has similar legislation in place that mandates how collection agencies can and cannot interact with consumers.  And, like in the U.S., companies that consistently abuse debtors can face severe fines and legal action.  In short – it makes little sense for collection agencies to pursue abusive tactics.

So, these complaints?

No doubt some are legitimate.  As in all businesses, not everyone is scrupulous, and those who play fast and free with the rules make it difficult for everyone.  However, more often these complaints stem from unhappy consumers who’d rather not be reminded, at all, of their financial obligations.  Hence the complaints.

Much like the glut of consumer complaints in America to the FTC, the complaints to Canada’s BPCPA aren’t categorized by legitimate/non-legitimate.  Instead, they’re lumped together as a whole and presented in urgent press releases, further damning the accounts receivable management industry as a whole.  Which, while not fair, is certainly not surprising.

It is interesting to note that, in the case of Canada, while over 3,000 complaints were lodged, no debt collection licenses were suspended in 2006.