Collections

What is the name of your state? Indiana
I am trying to collect on an old invoice. I received a letter from the "new company" stating that they purchased certain assets from the Banks formely owned by the "old company"
My Question is: Can they purchase these assets if the old company never filed for bankruptcy? And if so, how can I collect the money owned? Do I need to go after the old owner?
Thanks

I sent the invoice to the old owner of the company. He sent a letter back stating that "the corporation has been closed and is no longer is business. All of the assets of the business were surrendered to the bank. As such there is no further recovery available to you, or your company."

Is this legal? Can I start up a business, get material shipped to me, close my business and not be responsible to pay anyone, without declaring a bankruptcy?