Iowa Debt Collection Law at a Glance
Federal Protection
15 USC §1692g — Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. 30-day validation window from first written contact. Collector must cease collection upon written dispute.
State Supplement
Iowa Code §537.7101 et seq. — Iowa Debt Collection Practices Act
Covers original creditors — not just third-party collectors.
Damages available: Actual damages and attorney fees
Collector Licensing
Debt collectors in Iowa must be licensed under Iowa Code §537.7103. Unlicensed collection activity may constitute an additional violation.
Statute of Limitations
- Credit card / revolving: 5 years
- Written contracts: 10 years
- Oral contracts: 5 years
- Promissory notes: 10 years
- (Iowa Code §614.1)
Where to File Complaints
- Iowa Attorney General Consumer Protection Division
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
Small claims limit: $6,500
Additional Protections
- Iowa DCPA covers original creditors AND third-party collectors
- Debt collectors must register with the Iowa Attorney General
- Prohibits threats, harassment, and deceptive practices
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Iowa Debt Validation FAQ
What is the FDCPA 30-day validation period for debt collectors contacting me in Iowa?
Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (15 USC §1692g), you have 30 calendar days from the date a debt collector first contacts you in writing to request validation of the debt. During this time, the collector must cease collection activity if you dispute the debt in writing. This federal right applies in all 50 states including Iowa.
Does Iowa have its own debt collection protection law beyond the FDCPA?
Yes. Iowa provides additional consumer protections under Iowa Code §537.7101 et seq. (Iowa Debt Collection Practices Act). Notably, Iowa law extends protections to cover original creditors, not just third-party debt collectors. Violations may result in: Actual damages and attorney fees.
Are debt collectors required to be licensed in Iowa?
Yes. Under Iowa Code §537.7103, debt collectors operating in Iowa must be licensed. If a collector contacting you is not properly licensed, this may constitute an additional violation that strengthens your dispute.
What is the statute of limitations on debt in Iowa?
In Iowa, the statute of limitations varies by debt type: credit card/revolving debt is 5 years, written contracts are 10 years, and oral contracts are 5 years (Iowa Code §614.1). If your debt is past the statute of limitations, a collector cannot legally sue you to collect it, and threatening legal action on time-barred debt may violate the FDCPA.
What should I include in a debt validation letter sent from Iowa?
Your debt validation letter should: (1) reference the FDCPA (15 USC §1692g), (2) demand verification of the debt amount, (3) request proof of the collector's authority to collect, (4) ask for the original creditor's name and address, (5) request a copy of the original agreement, and (6) cite any applicable Iowa state protections. Send via certified mail, return receipt requested.
Can I sue a debt collector who violates my rights in Iowa?
Yes. Under the FDCPA (15 USC §1692k), you can sue for up to $1,000 in statutory damages plus actual damages and attorney fees. Under Iowa law, you may also seek: Actual damages and attorney fees. You can file in Iowa small claims court for claims up to $6,500.
Debt Validation Letters by State
Select your state to see your specific protections.