Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in North Carolina

Yes. Do you have to pay? Maybe, maybe not. Chances are the statute of limitations has run if this is not a state-run entity and any payment now will re-set the statute of limitations running.

Who is trying to collect? A debt collector? Have you sent a letter disputing the debt on the grounds that collection is barred by the statute of limitation? Try sending one (send it certified so you can prove you sent it and that they got it) and see what they say in response.