Out of the blue we received a call regarding a 15-20 year old "unpaid debt" to Popular Club. Is this legal?

Question

Two levels up this pyramid confirm that they were never notified of any issues, and no one has records going that far back...Including us...

Answer 1

It's legal.

Since it's that old, more than likely it's out of the collecting SOL (unless it's a judgment) And, it cannot be placed on your credit reports.

By law the collection agency must notify you by mail within 5 days of speaking to you on the phone - though they usually don't.
If that phone call was the first time you have heard from that collection agency and you are still within the first 30 days of that phone call - send them a debt validation letter.
Send it certified mail return receipt. Do not sign the letter, print your initials or just type your name.

If they cannot validate, which they probably can't, it wouldn't be legal for them to continue collections.

Then if after they make a lame attempt to validate or 35 days have passed since they signed the green card, send them a SOL letter. The SOL letter will tell them the account is no longer legally collectible and to take a hike. (and has more teeth to it than a cease & desist)

You might do some reading on the link I've provided in my profile to the FDCPA. You might also check out the last link I have listed - to find sample validation and SOL letter templates.

Answer 2

Yes it's legal. They can try to collect debts but they have no grounds, especially 15 years later. They have 3 years to file a claim, which that time has more the lapsed. It can stay on your credit for 7 years. Tell them to 'shove it' in a professional letter and that if they continue that you will in turn sue THEM for harrassment.

Answer 3

It's way past statutes of limitations. Send them a debt validation/cease & desist letter.

Answer 4

Unless it's a judgment, tax lien, student loan, you are well beyond the statue of limitations.