In trying to pay off old debt, I've read frequently that people recommend trying to pay the original creditor, which I have done with success a few times now. I know that Southwestern Bell is owned by AT&T now, and I have an active account with AT&T, opened in the past year, and they never advised me that I had an outstanding SW Bell balance. Does anyone think I have the option to pay AT&T for this existing balance? Or should I just pay Midland?