Desperate
It sounds like you have been going through an awful lot recently. Collection agency calls can be challenging. Some common complaints about collection agencies are the harassing nature of the phone calls. Usually this reflects the frequency and intensity of the calls.
In Ontario, collection agencies are governed by the Collection Agencies Act. This Act outlines what collection agencies may or may not do in attempting to collect a debt. For example, collection agencies may not contact a consumer, other than by ordinary mail, more than three times in a seven-day period without consent, once the agency has actually spoken with the consumer. They may not use threatening, profane, intimidating or coercive language, or use undue, excessive or unreasonable pressure. They may not give false or misleading information to any person. These are just a few examples of prohibited collection practices. For more information about the Collection Agency's Act, go to the Ministry of Consumer Services website at www.gov.on.ca and enter "Consumer Protection Collection Agencies" at their search prompt. Or contact 1-888-746-3328 to locate your nearest accredited not-for-profit credit counselling office. In Guelph-Wellington this number is 519-824-2431.
I hope this helps. Take care of yourself and best wishes in your current job search.
