Michigan 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
Mich. Comp. Laws §445.251 et seq. — Michigan Regulation of Collection Practices Act
Covers original creditors — not just third-party collectors.
Damages available: Actual damages plus $50-$500 per violation, plus attorney fees
Statute of Limitations
- Credit card / revolving: 6 years
- Written contracts: 6 years
- Oral contracts: 6 years
- Promissory notes: 6 years
- (Mich. Comp. Laws §600.5807)
Where to File Complaints
- Michigan Attorney General Consumer Protection Division
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
Small claims limit: $6,500
Additional Protections
- Covers original creditors AND third-party collectors
- Per-violation damages of $50 to $500
- Prohibits specific practices including contacting debtor at unusual times
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Michigan Debt Validation FAQ
What is the FDCPA 30-day validation period for debt collectors contacting me in Michigan?
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 Michigan.
Does Michigan have its own debt collection protection law beyond the FDCPA?
Yes. Michigan provides additional consumer protections under Mich. Comp. Laws §445.251 et seq. (Michigan Regulation of Collection Practices Act). Notably, Michigan law extends protections to cover original creditors, not just third-party debt collectors. Violations may result in: Actual damages plus $50-$500 per violation, plus attorney fees.
What is the statute of limitations on debt in Michigan?
In Michigan, the statute of limitations varies by debt type: credit card/revolving debt is 6 years, written contracts are 6 years, and oral contracts are 6 years (Mich. Comp. Laws §600.5807). 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 Michigan?
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 Michigan state protections. Send via certified mail, return receipt requested.
Can I sue a debt collector who violates my rights in Michigan?
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 Michigan law, you may also seek: Actual damages plus $50-$500 per violation, plus attorney fees. You can file in Michigan small claims court for claims up to $6,500.
Debt Validation Letters by State
Select your state to see your specific protections.