Oregon 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
Or. Rev. Stat. §646.639 — Oregon Unlawful Debt Collection Practices
Covers original creditors — not just third-party collectors.
Damages available: $200 per violation plus actual damages and attorney fees
Statute of Limitations
- Credit card / revolving: 6 years
- Written contracts: 6 years
- Oral contracts: 6 years
- Promissory notes: 6 years
- (Or. Rev. Stat. §12.080)
Where to File Complaints
- Oregon Attorney General Financial Fraud/Consumer Protection Section
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
Small claims limit: $10,000
Additional Protections
- Oregon statute covers original creditors AND third-party collectors
- $200 statutory penalty per violation
- Unlawful Trade Practices Act (ORS §646.605 et seq.) provides additional coverage
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Oregon Debt Validation FAQ
What is the FDCPA 30-day validation period for debt collectors contacting me in Oregon?
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 Oregon.
Does Oregon have its own debt collection protection law beyond the FDCPA?
Yes. Oregon provides additional consumer protections under Or. Rev. Stat. §646.639 (Oregon Unlawful Debt Collection Practices). Notably, Oregon law extends protections to cover original creditors, not just third-party debt collectors. Violations may result in: $200 per violation plus actual damages and attorney fees.
What is the statute of limitations on debt in Oregon?
In Oregon, 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 (Or. Rev. Stat. §12.080). 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 Oregon?
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 Oregon state protections. Send via certified mail, return receipt requested.
Can I sue a debt collector who violates my rights in Oregon?
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 Oregon law, you may also seek: $200 per violation plus actual damages and attorney fees. You can file in Oregon small claims court for claims up to $10,000.
Debt Validation Letters by State
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