Initial skills documentation — 25 categories, all SKILL.md + references + scripts

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+# Texas Debt Law Research Summary (Jul 7, 2026)
+
+Prepared for Debt Recovery Experts (DRE) internal policy manual. This is a research summary — NOT legal advice. Requires Texas attorney review.
+
+## Texas Debt Collection Act (TDCA) — Finance Code Ch. 392
+
+- DRE must register as a debt collector in Texas (bond/registration likely required)
+- Prohibited practices: threats, harassment, false representations, unfair/unconscionable means
+- Penalties up to $4,000 per violation
+- Must provide written notice within 5 days of first communication (validation notice)
+
+## Limited Power of Attorney
+
+- Must be in writing, signed by principal
+- Must be notarized (Texas Estates Code 751.0021)
+- Must specifically enumerate debt collection powers
+- Recording with county clerk NOT required
+- Remote Online Notarization (RON) is valid under Texas HB 3496
+
+## Statute of Limitations (Texas)
+
+| Debt Type | SOL |
+|-----------|-----|
+| Written contract | 4 years |
+| Promissory note | 4 years |
+| Open account | 4 years |
+| Oral contract | 4 years |
+| Tort claims | 2 years |
+
+Policy: Do not pursue claims past SOL. Running SOL from claim date is standard.
+
+## Service of Process
+
+- Certified mail (restricted delivery) is valid service under TRCP 106(a)(2)
+- If mail fails: personal service by sheriff/constable required
+- Electronic service NOT valid for initial service in Texas
+
+## FDCPA Compliance
+
+- Validation notice within 5 days of first communication
+- Mini-Miranda: "This is an attempt to collect a debt..."
+- Cease communication upon written request
+- No communication at inconvenient times/places
+- No false representations (amount, legal status, identity)
+- Debtor validation rights: dispute within 30 days
+
+## TCPSA / DTPA
+
+- Prior express consent required for autodialed calls to cell phones
+- Manual dialing only for debt collection
+- 3 calls per 7-day period per debtor (consumer debts)
+- No calls before 8 AM or after 9 PM local time
+- Must identify caller name and purpose
+
+## Data Privacy
+
+- Texas Bus. & Commerce Code 521: breach notification within 60 days
+- AG notice required if 250+ affected individuals
+- GLBA Safeguards Rule best practices for financial data
+- Retention: 7 years financial data, 5 years claims data, indefinite notary records