Does Canada have an FDCPA like the US?
No single federal statute mirrors the US FDCPA. Debt collection is regulated provincially — for example Ontario’s Collection and Debt Settlement Services Act, BC’s Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act, and Alberta’s Collection and Debt Repayment Practices Regulation. These set rules on call times, harassment, and third-party disclosure, enforced by provincial regulators and through civil claims.
How much can I recover for illegal debt collection in Canada?
There is no fixed statutory sum like the US $1,000. You can claim proven out-of-pocket losses plus damages for mental distress or harassment. Most claims proceed in small claims court, where provincial monetary limits (often $15,000 to $35,000) cap recovery. Egregious conduct can support aggravated or punitive damages.
What can a collection agency not do in Canada?
Provincial rules generally prohibit: calling on statutory holidays or outside permitted hours, contacting you more than three times a week after making contact, using threatening or profane language, contacting your employer except to confirm employment, and continuing to contact you after you dispute the debt in writing and ask them to communicate only with your lawyer.
Should I complain to a regulator or sue?
Both routes exist. A complaint to your provincial consumer-protection regulator can trigger 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 personally. Many consumers file a regulatory complaint first and pursue small claims for their own damages.