     darron persons (Chief) | Sunday, June 11, 2000 - 03:12 pm 
In my annual review of my credit report, two items from two collection agencies appeared.
When I called the agencies, they stated they mailed correspondence to me, but because I was relocated (military) I never received their mail.
The collections are only $200.00 (telephone bill) & another $85.00 (cable) I did not receive any bills when I left. At this point I don't want to dispute the items, I'd rather pay them, and get the items off my credit report. I have good credit.
The collection agencies state they cannot remove the entries even though I pay in full.
Is there any legal way to get these items removed or do I have to "endure" this unintended blemish for 7 yrs? |
| Don (Don) | Monday, June 12, 2000 - 03:41 am
The consensus here is that a paid collection is no better than an unpaid collection. And paying it will only restart the clock. Unless they are going to definately sue you, which over those amounts is very doubtful, don't bother. |
| Scott (Scott) | Monday, June 12, 2000 - 05:18 am
Chief,
Try this: First, you write a letter to the collection agency demanding that they "cease and desist" all communications with you, period. Then, you negotiate with the original creditor. First ask them for removal for payment in full. Get that in writing, on company letterhead, preferably signed by a company officer. If they will not do this, even after you explain that you were relocated and did not get the bill, see if they will agree (in writing just like above) to simply not discuss the matter with any third party. If you are successful in this, you need only dispute the entry on your credit report, and if they verify it, you can sue them. Most will honor the agreement, and due to not being verified, the disputed item will fall off. |
| Christine Baker (Admin) | Monday, June 12, 2000 - 12:19 pm
Is there a law that prohibits phone companies and cable from selling their delinquent accounts? |
| Scott (Scott) | Monday, June 12, 2000 - 12:56 pm
Not that I am aware of. I could ask my lawyer. I don't think I even had one sold. |
| Shylock (Shylock) | Monday, June 12, 2000 - 01:22 pm
In California we have a CPUC (California Public Utilities Commission) that can be used to intervene when a consumer has a problem with a monopoly utility company. See if your state has something similar. |
