FAQ
Debt Collector FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a debt collector.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a debt collector: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about debt collectors
Do debt collectors need a license?
In some states, yes.
Is the job declining?
BLS projects decline.
Can collectors work remotely?
Many do.
How much does a debt collector make?
The median annual wage for debt collectors was $47,030 ($22.61 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $34,400 and the highest 10% earned more than $65,580.
How long does it take to become a debt collector?
Most people need about Several weeks to months on the job of training. A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical.
Do you need a degree to be a debt collector?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
Is debt collector a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change -10.4% from 2025–35 (a projected decline), with about 11,200 openings each year. Upsides include no degree needed; a common challenge is that declining employment.
What skills does a debt collector need?
Key technical skills include collection laws, negotiation, payment processing, and skip tracing. Employers also value composure, empathy, and persistence.
What certifications are available for debt collectors?
Common credentials include Professional Collector Certification, FDCPA training, State collector license, and Healthcare collections training. Some states require collection agencies and individual collectors to be licensed.
Still deciding?
Try the Debt Collector fit quiz, compare with Customer Service Representative, or explore Debt Collector training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 43-3011 (Bill and account collectors).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Bill and account collectors (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.