Iowa’s state law on debt collection mimics, and closely mirrors, the FDCPA. It does provide some additional protections, however. For example, Iowa law prohibits a debt collector from attempting to have a consumer reaffirm a debt which is already in bankruptcy, without fully explaining the consequences of that reaffirmation. Iowa law also prohibits a health care provider from attempting to collect a debt (other than sending a single statement or bill) while a workers’ compensation case is ongoing. Like the Federal law, Iowa law also prohibits public disclosures, abusive conduct, harassment, and misrepresentations.
Like the Federal law, Iowa law provides for actual damages to a consumer victim. It does not, however, provide for a statutory damage award.
If you believe that a collector has behaved inappropriately while attempting to collect a debt from you in Iowa, our attorneys can help you to determine whether the FDCPA or Iowa law provides you with a legal remedy.
To learn more about the FDPCA, go to Federal Debt Collection Practices Act.
Iowa State Code Sections 537.7103(1) - 7103(6).
