How much is a debt harassment claim worth in Canada?
There is no fixed statutory sum like the US FDCPA $1,000. Recovery reflects your documented losses and distress, and most claims proceed in small claims court where provincial limits (often $15,000 to $35,000) cap the award. Persistent harassment, illegal threats, and third-party disclosure increase the value, especially with strong distress evidence.
What debt-collection conduct is illegal in Canada?
Provincial rules generally prohibit contacting you outside permitted hours, calling excessively (often more than three times a week after contact), using threatening or profane language, disclosing your debt to your employer or family, and continuing contact after you dispute the debt and ask them to deal only with your lawyer. Rules vary by province.
Should I report the collector or sue?
Both. A complaint to your provincial consumer-protection regulator can lead to investigation and fines against the agency (up to $50,000 for an individual and $250,000 for a corporation in several provinces). A civil claim compensates you. Many consumers file a regulatory complaint and pursue small claims for their own distress and losses.
How do I prove harassment by a collection agency?
Keep a detailed log of every call with the date, time, number, and what was said. Save voicemails and letters. Record any statements to your employer, family, or neighbours (third-party disclosure), which is a serious violation. This documentation supports both a regulatory complaint and a civil claim.