Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in Virginia

Sent off to collections for debt already paid

I moved from VA to CA. The apartment complex where I lived in VA sent me a statement for what I owed for water and power. When I got that statement, I paid the amount in full. A couple months later I got a notice from collections informing me that they sent me to collections for that amount. I then faxed a copy of the cashed check from the bank to collections, who then sent it off to the apartment complex, which was cashed a month or so before they sent me off to collections. Even though it's been paid, they refuse to acknowledge it and want me to pay it in full. When I repay it in full, they claim they�ll issue me a refund, but since they�ve already made the mistake of sending me off to collections I have no faith in them. Is this legal despite the fact that I've provided proof it's already been paid in full? What are the next steps I can take?

Thanks.


Asked on 11/09/07, 11:21 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
H.M. Torrey The Law Offices of H.M. Torrey

Re: Sent off to collections for debt already paid

Absolutely not. If you have provided accurate proof that the bill at issue has in fact been paid in full, you should not make a duplicate payment again for any reason. If the negative item is not removed from your credit reports, or the creditor at issue does not stop harassing you, you may file legal action against them asap. If you would like our affordable assistance, contact us directly.

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Answered on 11/09/07, 3:37 pm
Larry Rothman Larry Rothman & Associates

Re: Sent off to collections for debt already paid

We would have to review you documentation, but you apparently have a defense if you paid it. The collection agency may also have violated the Fair Debt Collection Act.

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Answered on 11/14/07, 10:14 am


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