Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in District of Columbia

Old, probably invalid debt - can they damage credit?

A community college I attended twelve years ago in Washington, DC is pursuing a $300 collection through OSI. I formally withdrew in accordance with their policy and had a zero balance. Was not contacted in the interim (they claim contact, but I was easily reachable even after moving out of state, and received nothing).

I have asked for proof - no proof. Have visited the school to review paperwork - they could not find file. However, collection activity continues. I feel as though I--name removed--being extorted and am VERY concerned about my credit rating.

I have no proof because after seven or eight years I disposed of my zero-balance bill. Did not receive a discharged promissory note.

I think a clerical error was made and have no way to prove it. Would pay if I were genuinely responsible, but I--name removed--not. What can I do? How much can they damage my credit?


Asked on 10/25/04, 4:34 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Michael Worsham Michael C. Worsham, Esq.

Re: Old, probably invalid debt - can they damage credit?

If you demand in writing that they stop contacting you to collect the debt, they must stop. Obtain copies of all three of your credit reports. If this debt appears, challenge it in writing to the credit bureau and to OSI. OSI may have bought the alleged debt from the college, so maybe you can obtain something useful in writing from the college. Also, it appears OSI may be bankrupt. http://www.budhibbs.com/OSI%20Outsourcing%20Solutions.htm

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Answered on 10/25/04, 6:04 pm


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