mlmain Posted November 23, 2004 Report Share Posted November 23, 2004 Hi, this is my first post to the forum. I have a collection agency that sent me a letter stating that I had bounced a check in 1998 at a restaurant in Michigan in the town I used to live in. The check amount was $15.00...of course the collection agency now wants to charge an additional $50.00 for processing. Up until this year, I didn't know anything about this check...there were no complaints filed on my credit report (and still aren't) from either the restaurant or this collection agency. The only proof that they sent me was a copy of the check with the NSF stamp on it. This may or may not be a valid debt, I know I had some checks that had bounced through that bank when I lived there but I paid up my accounts before I closed it and I haven't heard anything since. I haven't lived in Michigan in over 5 years and that bank account has been closed even longer. Do I have to pay this collection agency? Is there anything else I should require them to provide me? I know it's a measly amount of money but it's the principle!!!Thanks in advance. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
luckyduck Posted November 23, 2004 Report Share Posted November 23, 2004 I believe Michigan SOL is 6 years, and Idaho is 5. Someone jump in if I'm wrong. In other words, it's a junk debt. If my SOL times are correct, they can't take you to court to collect on it, but they can report it until 7 years after the date of the check.Weigh the importance of $65 to a bad mark on your credit for up to a year (depending on when the 7 yrs. is up). The check was for $15, and they probably paid $15 for it and are trying to make an easy $50 off you. Remember that if you try to settle it. The only way they will get any money is if you agree to give it to them. So, do not settle for anything if they don't remove it. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
wert Posted November 23, 2004 Report Share Posted November 23, 2004 Some states plainly consider a check as a written instrument. Either way, looks like to me you are beyond the SOL on this. If it was me, I'd sent them a letter stating the SOL situation and tell them you will sue if they try to collect.It's so old, even if they place it on your report it won't mean much and will fall off at the seven year mark.They probably bought the debt for 2-3 cents on the dollar and play the numbers game knowing a certain percentage will pay through a simple letter. They aren't going to court for that small amount, and I'd bet a C note they will drop it after your letter... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mlmain Posted November 23, 2004 Author Report Share Posted November 23, 2004 Thanks for all your help on this...I think I'll send them the letter. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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