Maryland Debt Collection Laws

Debt Collector Harassment Claims in Maryland | Serving PA, NJ, NY, MD & DC

Short answer. Maryland consumers are protected by the federal FDCPA and by the Maryland Consumer Debt Collection Act, which covers creditors as well as collectors and allows damages for emotional distress. Email msiddons@siddonslaw.com.

Last updated October 13, 2026.

Tell Us What the Debt Collector Did

Email msiddons@siddonslaw.com or use the form below. Tell us who is collecting, what they did and when, the state you live in, and whether you have been sued. Do not send documents through this website. We will reply with what we need.

    Key Takeaways

    • The Maryland Consumer Debt Collection Act, Commercial Law § 14-201 and following, applies to anyone collecting a consumer debt, including the original creditor.
    • A collector is liable for damages caused by a violation, including emotional distress and mental anguish.
    • A violation of the Act is also a violation of the Maryland Consumer Protection Act, which allows attorney’s fees.
    • Collection agencies in Maryland must be licensed.
    • The time limit to sue on most debts is generally 3 years.

    The Maryland Consumer Debt Collection Act

    The Maryland Act forbids collectors, including creditors, from using or threatening force, threatening criminal prosecution, telling your employer about the debt before a judgment, using abusive language, claiming a right they know does not exist, and engaging in conduct that would violate the federal FDCPA.

    A collector who violates the Act is liable for any damages the violation caused, including damages for emotional distress or mental anguish, whether or not there was a physical injury.

    Maryland Consumer Protection Act

    A violation of the Consumer Debt Collection Act is also an unfair or deceptive trade practice under the Maryland Consumer Protection Act. That law allows a consumer to recover damages and reasonable attorney’s fees.

    Collection Lawsuits in Maryland

    Most consumer collection suits are filed in the District Court of Maryland. You must file a notice of intention to defend within the time stated in the papers, usually 15 days after service. Debt buyers must meet specific proof rules before getting a judgment.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can I sue my original creditor in Maryland?

    Often yes. The Maryland Consumer Debt Collection Act covers creditors as well as collection agencies.

    Can I recover for stress caused by a collector in Maryland?

    Yes. The Maryland Act allows damages for emotional distress and mental anguish caused by a violation.

    Email Us About a Debt Collector

    Email msiddons@siddonslaw.com with the name of the collector, what happened and when, and the state you live in. The first conversation is free. All fees and costs are set out in a written engagement letter. Attorney Michael A. Siddons represents consumers in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Maryland and Washington, D.C., and the firm has handled hundreds of Fair Debt Collection Practices Act cases.

    More on Debt Collection