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Collections, and calling first
Protecting what you build · Lesson 15 of 22 · 4 min
Most providers (hospitals, clinics, utilities, cities) will set up a payment plan that never reaches your report. The account only goes to a collection agency after months of silence.
If it is already in collections, request debt validation in writing within 30 days of first contact. The agency must prove the debt is yours and the amount is right before collecting.
Never pay a collector by giving bank access over the phone, and get any settlement in writing before you pay. Paying an old collection does not always remove it, so ask what they will report.
Takeaway
Call before a bill goes to collections. That single habit protects the score most.
Next up: Medical debt is treated differently