Random debt collections after X amount of years (pay, debts, collector)

[shiphead]

This continues to happen in my adult life. After 5 years a random doctor decides to collect a debt from me because my insurance didn't want to take it. The IRS did an audit on me and was found to owe $400, i've done everything through turbotax, guess i need to start seeking a professional tax accountant?

If i owe someone money can't i check my SS# or something? I'd rather pay it off and know about it then, surprise ass rape. I could always go cash i suppose.

[calipoppy]

There is nothing that you can do about the IRS audit. If they only want an additional $400 from you then thank your lucky stars that it isn't $4000 or $40,000, pay it and move on!

The medical debt from the doctor is a little different. How old was the original debt? How much is it? Is the doctor trying to collect directly or is he using a collection agency? If the amount is worth it, research the HIPAA laws to determine if the doctor/collection agency has violated your medical records privacy rights. You may be able to fight this info off of your credit reports.

Lastly, pull your credit reports at least once a year. You will be able to catch little nasties more quickly.

[Sunny-Days-in-Florida]

On the 5 year old debt, check the statute of limitations in your state on medical. It might be out of SOL and cannot be collected.

They can try but legally they cannot collect it if it is past the states statute.

Most collectors know that most consumers have never heard of this.

They do not count on the consumer knowing and therefore collect debts they legally cannot rather easily using scare tactics.