When you’re being approached by a debt collector in Singapore — whether you’re a debtor or a business seeking recovery — understanding your legal rights and boundaries is essential. At Assured Debt Recovery, we believe in clear, respectful, and lawful communication. This guide explains what debt collectors can and cannot do in Singapore and how you can protect yourself or act within legal limits.
A debt collector is a third-party professional or agency hired to recover unpaid debts from individuals or businesses. While they operate on behalf of creditors, debt collectors in Singapore must follow strict legal and ethical guidelines.
Not all debt collectors are licensed lawyers, but they are still bound by the Protection from Harassment Act (POHA) and other regulations.
Yes. Debt collection is legal in Singapore as long as it is done professionally and without harassment.
Companies like Assured Debt Recovery operate within the law — using structured communication, proper documentation, and negotiation to recover debts.
However, any form of violence, threats, public shaming, or unauthorized property entry is strictly prohibited.
If you are being contacted by a debt collector in Singapore, it’s important to understand that you have legal rights and protections. First and foremost, you have the right to be treated with respect and without harassment. Debt collectors are not allowed to threaten you, use abusive language, or intimidate you in any way. The Protection from Harassment Act (POHA) protects individuals from such behaviour, and any violation can be reported to the authorities.
You also have a right to privacy. This means that your financial matters and personal debts should not be disclosed to your family members, employers, neighbours, or the public. Professional debt collectors must keep all communication confidential and avoid using public shaming tactics — such as publishing your details online — which are strictly illegal in Singapore.
In addition, you have the right to request proof of the debt being claimed. Before making any payment, you can ask the collector to provide documents such as invoices, agreements, or statements showing how the debt was incurred. A reputable agency will always furnish this information when requested.
If you’re facing financial difficulty, you also have the right to negotiate repayment terms. You are not obligated to accept unreasonable demands or make payment on the spot. Instead, you can discuss a payment plan or propose an alternative schedule that is more manageable. Finally, you have the right to seek legal advice at any time. If you’re unsure of your obligations or feel you’re being treated unfairly, speaking with a lawyer or consumer protection agency can help protect your interests.
If you’re a business owner or individual owed money in Singapore, you have clear legal rights to protect your interests. First and foremost, you have the right to recover debts that are legally owed to you. Whether the debtor is an individual or a company, as long as the debt is valid and documented — through contracts, invoices, or agreements — you can initiate recovery efforts through proper channels.
You also have the right to engage a professional debt collector or legal representative to act on your behalf. By working with a trusted and compliant agency like Assured Debt Recovery, you ensure that all recovery efforts are carried out ethically and in accordance with Singaporean law. This protects your business reputation while maximising your chances of successful recovery.
Furthermore, you are entitled to transparency and communication throughout the debt collection process. A reputable debt collector should keep you informed of progress, update you on any debtor responses, and advise you when escalation to legal proceedings may be necessary. You also have the right to decide how far to pursue a case — whether through negotiation, repayment plans, mediation, or formal litigation.
At all times, your goal as a creditor should be to recover your funds without violating the debtor’s rights or risking legal backlash. Working with a professional agency ensures your actions remain lawful, measured, and effective.
At AssuredDR, we make sure both parties are treated fairly while securing the best outcome for our clients.
While debt collection is legal in Singapore, there are strict rules in place to prevent abuse, harassment, or unethical behaviour. Debt collectors are not allowed to use threats, intimidation, or physical force under any circumstances. This includes shouting, threatening legal action without basis, or suggesting harm to the debtor or their property. All forms of aggressive or violent conduct are illegal and can result in criminal charges under the Protection from Harassment Act (POHA).
Debt collectors also cannot harass debtors through constant phone calls or uninvited visits, especially outside of reasonable hours. Repeated or late-night communication, stalking, or showing up at someone’s home or workplace to embarrass them is considered harassment and may be reported to the authorities.
Another prohibited action is entering a debtor’s home or business premises without permission. Debt collectors have no legal authority to break into or enter a property without consent, nor can they seize belongings unless authorized by a court order or bailiff. Impersonating law enforcement, court officials, or legal professionals to intimidate someone is also a serious offense.
Additionally, publicly shaming a debtor is strictly forbidden. Debt collectors are not allowed to disclose personal or financial information to third parties — such as friends, colleagues, neighbours, or online platforms. Publishing a debtor’s identity, phone number, or outstanding amount on social media or websites is a breach of privacy laws and may result in legal consequences.
Professional debt collectors in Singapore must adhere to the law, maintain ethical standards, and treat all parties with respect. Engaging a licensed and reputable agency like Assured Debt Recovery ensures debt collection is carried out legally and responsibly.
Engaging a licensed debt collector in Singapore offers you professionalism, legal protection, and a higher chance of recovering your debts successfully. Licensed agencies are familiar with Singapore’s legal framework and adhere strictly to the guidelines set by the Credit Collection Association of Singapore (CCAS) and the Protection from Harassment Act. This ensures that debt recovery is conducted ethically, respectfully, and within legal limits, which protects both your reputation and the rights of the debtor.
Licensed collectors are also trained in effective communication, negotiation, and mediation techniques, helping to resolve disputes without escalation. They understand how to assess each case — whether it involves corporate debt, unpaid invoices, or delinquent accounts — and can tailor their approach to suit the situation. Moreover, these agencies maintain proper documentation and records, which can be crucial if legal proceedings become necessary.
Most importantly, working with a licensed agency signals professionalism and credibility. It reassures clients and business partners that your company values ethical practices and does not resort to intimidation or illegal tactics to recover funds. By partnering with a trusted name like Assured Debt Recovery, you gain a structured, compliant, and results-driven solution to debt recovery — without the risk of reputational damage or legal trouble.
If you’re struggling to collect an overdue payment, don’t go it alone.
Contact us, your trusted debt collector in Singapore, to discuss your case confidentially.