Questions & Answers

How does PIPA affect the information that an employer can give to a collection agency calling for information about an employee? What information can I give and what kind of consent does employee have to give?

PIPA permits collection agencies to operate in Alberta. The Act allows an organization to collect, use and disclose personal information if the collection, use and disclosure is necessary to collect a debt owed to the organization.

However, collection agencies are governed by the Fair Trading Act and the Collection Practices Regulation apply to companies and people working for them who are in the business of collecting debts or locating debtors for others. Collection agencies may contact your employer only to have the employer verify employment. Other details of the debt can only be discussed between the debtor and the creditor. For more information, please visit the Service Alberta Website.

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