Under CFPB Regulation F (12 C.F.R. § 1006.2(j)), a limited-content message is defined as a voicemail message left for a consumer that includes all required content items, may include specific optional content items, and includes no other content. The required content consists of: (1) a business name for the debt collector that does not indicate that the collector is in the debt collection business, (2) a request that the consumer reply, (3) the name or names of natural persons whom the consumer can contact to reply, and (4) a telephone number the consumer can use to reply. Optional content is limited to a salutation, date and time, suggested reply times, and a statement that the consumer may speak to any representative or associate. Under 12 C.F.R. § 1006.2(d), leaving only a limited-content message is not a 'communication' regarding a debt, allowing collectors to leave voicemails without risking unauthorized disclosure to third parties who might overhear the message.
Limited-Content Message
A limited-content message is a specific voicemail message left for a consumer by a debt collector that contains only statutorily enumerated required and optional details, thereby preventing unlawful third-party debt disclosure under Regulation F.
Operational Meaning & Core Elements
Statutory Framework & Jurisdictional Scope
This regulatory definition is defined in CFPB Regulation F, 12 C.F.R. § 1006.2(j). It applies solely to voicemail messages left for consumers in connection with covered consumer debts. It does not apply to text messages, emails, live phone conversations, or postal mail. If a voicemail contains any phrase, department name (e.g., 'credit card collections department'), or detail beyond the strict required and optional list, it ceases to be a limited-content message and is classified as a communication under § 1006.2(d), subjecting the collector to potential liability under 15 U.S.C. § 1692c(b) if heard by a third party. The rule does not apply to commercial B2B collections.
Why It Matters for Debt Buyers, Creditors & Operators
Before Regulation F, collectors faced a legal dilemma between the FDCPA's requirement to meaningfully disclose their identity and the prohibition against disclosing debt information to third parties who might hear an answering machine. The limited-content message creates an objective operational standard. Adhering strictly to its required and permitted elements enables automated dialing and agent voicemails to proceed without incurring third-party disclosure liability.
Authoritative Primary Sources
Primary statutory texts, regulatory rules, and official agency guidance supporting this definition:
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