Question: Can a collector contact me about a debt that's not on my credit report?

A reader says: A debt collector contacted me about a debt that's no longer listed on my credit report. Is this legal?

Answer:

Yes. Just because a debt has passed the credit reporting time limit (usually seven years) doesn’t mean the debt collector can’t legally collect on an outstanding debt. Even if the debt is still in the valid credit reporting time frame, it may not appear on your credit report simply because the collector hasn't listed it yet.

The collector can continue attempting to collect from you until you pay or settle the debt or have it discharged in bankruptcy.