Oh sorry. I misunderstood and though they had re-dated the debt.

If they just called they are likely bluffing. It is a violation of the Collection Agencies Act to report it. That being said collection agencies do it all the time. They make up fake activity and then reset the six year clock.

Buy a credit report from Equifax and find out if it is there or not. They are $15-20 and you'll know. If you are worried they might try to sneak it on sign up for Credit Watch $13/month and if they try you'll get an e-mail.

So, Millie, you think it will be an issue on my credit? What I don't want is to apply for a new card,or for a mortgage, and have this be an issue.

You should dispute it with the credit bureaus but that is a complete waste of time.

TransUnion claims that you can't dispute a date of last activity.

Equifax investigates by asking the collection agency to confirm the information but doesn't require any actual documentation.

Still you have to go though the steps so launch the investigation and then when you get the rejection letter contact the Registrar of Collection Agencies and he will fix it for you.

Thanks for the help. Much appreciated.

Goto the Equifax and TransUnion websites, download the appropriate request forms, and then fill 'em in. Include ID, then mail them out. You're entitled to a free copy from each firm each year.

This feels like dumb question, but what is the best way to get your credit report without having to pay for it, assuming there is one?!

No.. this credit should long be gone off your credit report... after 6 years.
Best thing is to check your credit report and see just for good measure

Monty,

Thanks for the speedy reply.

My other question/concern is that my credit will now be negatively affected. I My credit is good at the present, and I don't want these nancies to be able to mess it up.

You did the right thing.. sometimes collection agencies will buy old debts for really cheap and then try to collect them. They won't be able to sue as the debt is way past the statute of limitation.

Ask for proof that they are licensed in your province... both the collection agency and the collection agent. Contact consumer protection and complain. etc etc

These gals keep calling me about a canadian tire store card from 1994. What's the best way to get them off my case? Also, is there anything I can say/do that would restart the 6 year SOL?

I asked for their address today so I could send a cease and desist letter, and got hung up on.