By David Patterson
Before you pay that collection call, know your rights.
The phone rings.
The caller claims you owe money on a credit card you haven’t used in years, maybe even decades. They sound convincing. They know your name, an old address, and perhaps even the last four digits of your Social Security number.
Then comes the pressure.
“If you don’t pay today, we’ll file a lawsuit.”
“We’re sending your account to the sheriff.”
“You could lose your home.”
Before you reach for your checkbook, take a deep breath.
You may be dealing with what’s known as “zombie debt” — old debt that has been bought and sold among collection agencies for pennies on the dollar.
In Florida, there are time limits called “statutes of limitations” for filing lawsuits to collect most consumer debts. Although collectors may still contact you about an old debt, they generally cannot successfully sue you once that legal deadline has passed if you raise the statute of limitations as a defense.
Instead, ask the collector to send written verification of the debt. Federal law requires debt collectors to provide information that helps you identify the account and who currently owns it. Never provide your bank account, Medicare number, or Social Security number during an unsolicited collection call.
Perhaps the biggest mistake consumers make is paying a small amount “just to get them off my back.”
Unfortunately, scammers have also discovered that we are especially vulnerable to collection threats. Some callers impersonate law firms, government agencies, or court officials to frighten victims into making instant payments with gift cards, wire transfers, or digital payment apps.
Remember this: Legitimate debt collectors don’t demand payment by gift card, threaten arrest over unpaid consumer debt, or refuse to send written documentation.
The next time an unfamiliar voice insists you owe money from twenty years ago, don’t let fear make the decision.
Ask questions. Request proof. Know your rights.
