Maryland 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
Md. Code Com. Law §14-201 et seq. — Maryland Consumer Debt Collection Act
Covers original creditors — not just third-party collectors.
Damages available: Actual damages, attorney fees, and costs
Collector Licensing
Debt collectors in Maryland must be licensed under Md. Code Bus. Reg. §7-101 et seq.. Unlicensed collection activity may constitute an additional violation.
Statute of Limitations
- Credit card / revolving: 3 years
- Written contracts: 3 years
- Oral contracts: 3 years
- Promissory notes: 6 years
- (Md. Code Cts. & Jud. Proc. §5-101)
Where to File Complaints
- Maryland Attorney General Consumer Protection Division
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
Small claims limit: $5,000
Additional Protections
- Maryland CDCA covers original creditors AND third-party collectors
- Collection agencies must be licensed by the Maryland Collection Agency Licensing Board
- Prohibits harassment, misrepresentation, and unfair practices
- Consumer Protection Act (Md. Code Com. Law §13-101 et seq.) provides additional coverage
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Maryland Debt Validation FAQ
What is the FDCPA 30-day validation period for debt collectors contacting me in Maryland?
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 Maryland.
Does Maryland have its own debt collection protection law beyond the FDCPA?
Yes. Maryland provides additional consumer protections under Md. Code Com. Law §14-201 et seq. (Maryland Consumer Debt Collection Act). Notably, Maryland law extends protections to cover original creditors, not just third-party debt collectors. Violations may result in: Actual damages, attorney fees, and costs.
Are debt collectors required to be licensed in Maryland?
Yes. Under Md. Code Bus. Reg. §7-101 et seq., debt collectors operating in Maryland 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 Maryland?
In Maryland, the statute of limitations varies by debt type: credit card/revolving debt is 3 years, written contracts are 3 years, and oral contracts are 3 years (Md. Code Cts. & Jud. Proc. §5-101). 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 Maryland?
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 Maryland state protections. Send via certified mail, return receipt requested.
Can I sue a debt collector who violates my rights in Maryland?
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 Maryland law, you may also seek: Actual damages, attorney fees, and costs. You can file in Maryland small claims court for claims up to $5,000.
Debt Validation Letters by State
Select your state to see your specific protections.