Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in California

9 year old phone bill

I just received a collection bill for an old phone number that was closed in 3/98. I believe I paid that bill but either way there is no way to prove it since I don't keep records back that far. They are threatening to put it on my credit report. Can they put a debt of 9yrs ago (only a 86.43 phone bill) no judgment, on my credit report?


Asked on 10/05/07, 5:29 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Larry Rothman Larry Rothman & Associates

Re: 9 year old phone bill

There may be a violation of the Fair Debt Collection Act. We would have to review the threats to you. Please contact us if you have any questions. Do you have any documentation or letters from them?

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Answered on 10/17/07, 8:02 am
Brian Corber Brian Lee Corber, Attorney at Law

Re: 9 year old phone bill

You could not be sued for a 9 year old phone bill, assuming that you haven't made a payment within the statute of limitations (4 years on written contracts in California). Generally debts older than 7 years don't get put on a credit history. If it appears, contest it with the credit bureau and threaten thecollection agency with a FDCPA lawsuit or CA FDCPA. Just because they make threats doesn't mean that their conduct is legal.

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Answered on 10/05/07, 8:12 pm


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