Should I call Collection Agency?

[Mister305]

Hello Everyone:

 

Many years ago, when the crisis occurred, I owed Amex 24k. I was going through so much at the time that I am not clear whether I paid that debt. I am almost positive that I did, because I remember the lady lying to me and telling me they were gong to resend my card. I called Amex the other day because my mom was going to add me to her card and they said "No". When I called the collection agent answered, said hello and automatically informed me that I still owe them 24k and that because the statute of limitations has passed they can no longer collect. (hell of a hello). Anyhow, the collection agency at the time was Nationwide Credit. I want to call them to see if they have record of me paying. My fear is that if I didn't, they are going to start bothering me. Should I call? Would like to hear opinions.

 

 

[LKH]

If the SOL has run, then it's ok to call as they can't win via lawsuit as time has expired to sue.

[TheScholar]

LKH knows much better than me, but from my limited understanding may be missing one thing. As I understand it, in my state (NY), the CA can't sue once it is past the SOL -- but that doesn't mean that they can't try to collect. You can send them a FOAD if they start bothering you and that will likely work -- but my understand is that they can still call now and then and politely request for you to pay. That said, I sent my first FOAD a couple of months ago and the calls stopped immediately (it was well beyond the SOL). I haven't heard a peep since.

 

Edit: Moral of the story, check the policies for your state (which someone here likely knows).

Edited October 24, 2014 by TheScholar