Theresa
Fremont,#2Consumer Comment
Mon, October 23, 2006
Depending on the last time you made a payment, the statute of limitations on this debt may almost be up. I am not sure if them selling your debt re-starts the clock, but if not, they are almost out of time to collect a penny from you before they have to write it off. I am sure it will stay on your credit report, but if you are into buying a house or car,most places will ask you for an explanation of why you have it on there and make their own decision as to whether they will use it against you or not. Good luck! I have had the statutes work in my favor before for a debt that was incurred after I cancelled an account. fair-debt-collection.com/statue-limitations.html
Fawn
Hollywood,#3Consumer Suggestion
Wed, October 04, 2006
You are right...you should have read the contract. With that being said, these people are just sales people and that's how they get paid - by selling -YOU! Yes, they do have the right to hire a third party (the collections agency) to try and get the money. They are paid a percentage and bonus of what they collect. Many, many years ago, I was also a Balley's customer and experienced some similar things as you. My best advice is to ignore the collection agency and eventually they will either write it off or make an offer of half of what is owed. Do not call them; however, if they contact you at work, you only have to tell them once not to call you at your place of business. It is a violation, punishable and possibly considered harrassement should they continue to call you there once you tell them (write them certified as well) not to contact you there. It will take years for this to come off of your credit report, but I wouldn't worry about it too much. Usually, companies disregard the negative health club status on your credit. Just make sure you keep all of your documentation on file - just in case. Again, my best advice is to not make any further contact with the collection agency. They will make you crazy and like I stated earlier, it'll all go away eventually. No one really takes health club debt seriously. Just make sure this is the ONLY negative thing on your credit and you'll be just fine!