Hmm...not sure what this is?

Question

I had mediocre credit about 10 years ago. I paid off all of my debt and went through a "cleaning up" period. I have not had anything negative in more than 7 years and have a credit score of 768.

Friday I got a collection letter from some Joe Schmoe stating I owe them $273.00.

Not only do I have no idea who these people are, but I also know that anything I owed I completely paid off 7 years ago.

I pulled a credit report and this debt is not on my credit. If I send them the obligatory letter disputing the debt can they put it on my credit?

I want to keep it off...I am almost tempted to just pay it so it doesn't affect my credit.

Anyone know the right thing to do?

Thanks

Answer 1

Sounds like a junk debt buyer (JDB)

Send them a debt validation letter before 30 days have passed from receiving that letter from them.

If that is the first communication from them, they legally must stop all collection attempts until they validate
And, if you had already paid the debt they will not be able to provide it. Even if you hadn't paid, they probably still would not be able to provide it after this much time has passed.

If the debt is past the legal reporting period they cannot legally re-age it and place it on your reports.
If the debt is still within the legal reporting period and you request validation within the first 30 days from their first contact to you, they legally cannot place it on your reports until they properly validate.

Also, if you request validation within the first 30 days from their first contact and they fail to validate but sell it off to another JDB, you can inform the new JDB that the account is still under a validation request with the previous JDB (which would stop the new JDB from trying to collect).

Always do everything by mail.
Never sign your signature to any letter you send to a collector or JDB. Only print your initials or type your name.
Always send letters to collectors/JDB's by certified return receipt mail.

You might click on my profile and click on the last link I have listed where you can find sample validation letter templates.

Answer 2

Sounds like a phising scam -- aimed at just getting you to pay. Some places are getting old written off collections reports and going after people for $$ that was already paid and/or written off. Try sending a dispute letter, but I would also search for the business name. look for an actual street address and google it, or even a phone number and try calling. Chances are they don't exist legitimately.

Answer 3

write them back and tell them you never heard of them and they have the wrong person. Find out who is in charge there and get details about transaction