Things to know about paying a debt collector?

[AmyAnne]

We moved at the end of last month, and apparently Time Warner Cable didn't trust us to pay the final bill (which is $25) because they have already sent it to a debt collector. Of course I am going to pay it, but should I just send a check? Should I follow up to make sure they credited the payment properly? I have just heard scary stories about debt collections and want to make sure this is completely taken care of.

 

[ruadisneyfan2]

Does that mean it's too late to pay Time Warner directly?

 

[usnuzuloose]

That seems kind of fast to send it to collections. I would call and talk to a supervisor.

 

[AmyAnne]

Does that mean it's too late to pay Time Warner directly?

I assume that TWC would still take my payment but then they would have to contact the collection people, which might or might not happen? It seems better to pay the collection notice, but I could be wrong about that.

That seems kind of fast to send it to collections. I would call and talk to a supervisor.

I received the final bill two weeks ago and it said "payable upon receipt," which I figured was because it was the final bill. I received the collections notice today. I thought about calling to complain, especially since we signed up for TWC at our new house so it's not like they don't know where to find us. But I am not sure I want to spend the time or energy to deal with TWC customer service people.

 

[chris31997]

I would call and complain to TWC but speak with a supervisor.

IF you send the payment to the collection people make a copy of the check or pay by money order so you can track it. I would also send the payment certified mail where they have to sign for it. Then keep all of this as proof that payment was made. It might come back. IF you have proof then you mail a copy of the proof.

 

[redsonja76]

I would lose my sh*t on TWC because when something goes to collections it hurts your credit report. That is absolutely worth the time to be on the phone with them.

 

[Pmctn]

Go read at creditboards.com. Its the disboards of credit.

 

[Crystal824]

There are two types of collection agents. 1) is an agency hired by the original creditor to collect the debt and 2) is where the debt is actually sold to the collection agency. Given the time frame here, I would be willing to bet it is the first type. Generally, debts aren't sold until they are really old and then for pennies on the dollar. You could pay either TWC or the collection agency. Either way, I would keep proof of payment in case you are contacted again.

 

[seashoreCM]

Do you still have an original final bill?

If you are not very late (like more than 60 days) you might silently pretend not to have gotten the letter from the collection agency and simply pay the original bill.

Use a check or, if they always accepted that, a credit card. Do not pay cash or use a debit card except at an authorized agency that gives you a receipt.