I Paid My Credit Card Debt But They Are Still Contacting Me

Reader Question: How long can they collect money for old credit card debts? Some of the stuff coming to me is 11 years old or more. Those records and debts are paid and they keep sending me more.

I'm not sure who "they" are, but if you are referring to collection agencies there are ways to stop them. A collection agency cannot collect on a bill that has been paid or settled in the past. I suggest you read the FTC's rules regarding fair debt collection. Basically, it says to send the debt collector(s) a letter stating that you have paid the debt, along with any supporting documentation you have.

Here's an excerpt from the part about paid bills:

A collector may not contact you if, within 30 days after you receive the written notice, you send the collection agency a letter stating you do not owe money. However, a collector can renew collection activities if you are sent proof of the debt, such as a copy of a bill for the amount owed. -Source

So the first thing you should do is verify that you have, in fact, paid the debts in question. If you're certain of this, then send a letter to the collection agency or credit card company who is contacting you. If I were you, I'd send it by certified mail so you have proof of their receipt. Check out the FTC's website (hyperlinked above) for more information.

Hope that helps.