I posted earlier about improving my credit report? I have an item on there that I have no idea what it's for, it's a $25 debt owed to some collection agency in Colorado. I called them and left a message stating that I had no idea what this was about and I needed proof it was my debt and if it was I may be willing to take care of it for removal of the item off my report. I have since found out through Toothman's help and reading through some of the postings, that I would be best served by sending a validation letter. Should I just ignore any calls they may make to me regarding my message and just send a letter? If they do validate the debt, would it be in my best interests to just pay it, or should I make some sort of negotiations with the collection agency, like exchange of payment for removal? I'm not trying to get out of paying a valid debt if it is, but I also don't want to end up getting stuck with them damaging my credit even further by leaving a stupid $25 debt on the report for 7 years.
If they try saying it is illegal what is my recourse? Again, I'm not even sure at this point it's valid but I want to cover all my bases. Thank you so much for your help. This board is REALLY helpful.
