Penalities for Violation of Wisconsin's Debt Collection Law

If you violate Wisconsin’s law relating to Debt Collection Practices, there are several remedies available to the consumer.

  Sec. 427.105, Wis. Stats (PDF: external link). provides that the consumer may file suit to recover:

• Actual damages, including any incidental and consequential damages sustained by the consumer because of the violation;

• Twice the amount of the finance charge in connection with the transaction, up to $1000;

• Damages for emotional distress or mental anguish (does not require physical injury);

• The right to recover any collateral the consumer was induced to surrender by conduct of the merchant that violates Wisconsin’s Debt Collection Law.