📣 What Is the 11-Word Phrase?
If you’ve ever been harassed by debt collectors, you’ve probably seen viral advice online about an “11-word phrase” that supposedly stops them cold. But what is this phrase, and more importantly — does it actually work?
Let’s break it down from a Texas consumer protection law perspective.
The phrase often shared online is:
“Please cease and desist all calls and contact with me, immediately.”
This phrase is based on your rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), a federal law that protects consumers from harassment and abusive tactics by debt collectors.
⚖️ Does It Really Stop Debt Collectors?
✅ Yes — But Only in Limited Ways.
Under the FDCPA, if you send a debt collector a written notice telling them to stop contacting you, they are legally required to stop — with two exceptions:
- They can still contact you once more to confirm they will no longer contact you.
- They can still sue you to collect the debt.
So while this phrase may stop phone calls, emails, and letters, it does not prevent legal action — and using it blindly could backfire.
🛑 The Risk of Using This Phrase Without a Plan
If you tell a collector to stop contacting you without:
- Verifying the debt
- Negotiating a resolution
- Asserting your legal defenses
…you may end up missing a lawsuit or defaulting on a debt that you could have fought or reduced.
💡 A Better Approach: Know Your Rights
Before using the 11-word phrase, consider these steps:
- Request Debt Validation
You have the right to request written proof that the debt is legitimate and that the collector has the right to collect it. - Know the Statute of Limitations in Texas
In Texas, most debt collection lawsuits must be filed within 4 years. If it’s older, you may not have to pay. - Work With a Texas Debt Defense Lawyer
If you’re being threatened with a lawsuit or already served, don’t go it alone. A skilled debt defense attorney can:- Evaluate your case
- Challenge inaccurate or expired debts
- Negotiate settlements or dismissals
- Protect you in court
✅ When to Use the Phrase (and When Not To)
Use it when:
- You’re being harassed with constant calls or threats
- You’re not disputing the debt but want peace and quiet
- You’re planning to deal with the debt another way (e.g., lawyer, bankruptcy, etc.)
Avoid it when:
- You haven’t validated the debt
- You’re within the lawsuit window
- You’re unsure what the debt is for
📞 Need Help? Texas Debt Law Has Your Back
At Texas Debt Law, we defend consumers across Texas who are being sued, harassed, or threatened by debt collectors like Midland Credit, Portfolio Recovery, or LVNV Funding.
We can help you:
- Understand your rights
- Stop abusive collection practices
- Fight lawsuits and win in court
Call us today for a free consultation — before the debt collectors take the next step.
