Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in Georgia

Depending on when you last paid for the item, they may be barred by the statute of limitations.

You need to dispute the debt in writing (certified mail/return receipt is the best option). Demand strict proof, including a summary of the account, and all documents that support their assertion that you owe the debt.

Do not say anything else in the letter or admit that you owe or had the dispute. Because the debt may be stale, you shouldn't agree to a payment plan or make any admission until you understand the basis for their claim and the last payment they contend you made.

If they file suit against you, simply assert the statute of limitations as an affirmative defense or file a motion to dismiss based on the statute of limitation. Also, you may have other defenses. Again, you need to check the history of your account and when you made the last payment. This will determine if you have the limitations defense.

Paula's answer is pretty good, but I'd recommending having a lawyer write a letter to make sure the problem goes away for good (assuming the collector is past the statute), as a wrong word could make you liable on the debt even after the statute runs.