Do I have to deal with the collection companies?

there's a difference between "sold" and "assigned". If the debt was actually sold, then the original creditor has nothing to do with it anymore, so you cannot work with them. What you should do, in any case, is request validation of the debt, each and every time. If for no other reason, you need to make sure that the debt collector thats calling actually has the legal right to collect on that debt.

How do I know if they were "sold" or "assigned"

well, at this point, you sent out the validation request letters, right? I hope you sent them out by certified mail so you can prove that they were received. For now, you need to wait to see what the debt collectors do next. It is illegal for them to continue trying to collect the debt USING ANY MEANS AT ALL until they provide you with validation.

I did send them. I sent them out certified with return receipt, which I received all of them back already. I haven't received calls or follow up. I know I owe the money. What is the correct "debt validation" they should sent me? (a last statement, a letter from the credit company authorizing the collection?). I am sorry that I am so clueless.

Melissa--

the funny part is, there is actually no set standard for what they must provide. The law merely says that they must provide documentation of the debt. To me, proper validation means that they produce an original contract with my signature on it--because nothing else proves that I am the exact person they are looking to take money from.

you should not get a single call or letter from them, except for them to say that they are either closing the matter or taking further action, until the validation gets to you. Keep those green USPS cards, they may end up being evidence.

hi, I had faxed a cease and desist letter to a collection agency and specifically told them that i was going to deal with the original creditor only. what made me do this was i asked a question and they couldn't verify it and didn't have all information in front of them and kept stuttering and sounded like he was trying to come up with something on the top of his head so i told them, "how do i know, you are who you say you are?" I just didn't trust them. but if they choose to ignore the cease and desist letter, i believe it is a very heavy fine for every contact they try to make with you.

I have the same question...my account was just assigned (not sold) to a collection agency, but I would rather deal with the credit card company. Can I do this?