Debt Collection Laws

What is the name of your state? Oregon

I was wondering if any one could tell me the laws concering how long a company has to collect a debt. I recently got a letter saying I owed money to AT&T for a cell phone I had over 2.5 years ago. I was never contacted by AT&T about this nor has anyone tried to contact me between the time I canceled my phone and now. I have sent in a written request for a copy of the bill in question.

The company name is Bereau of Collection Recovery, Inc. When I called them about it the "kid" who answered sounded 15 and had the customer service skills of a moss covered rock. Which made me think this isnt legit. I have tried to contact AT&T to see if the company is one that they use for collections, but haven't heard back from them and doubt I will.

I more concered with do they have the right after 2.5 years to try to collect?

Thanks for any help
Chuck

[racer72]

The statute of limitations for written contracts in your state is 6 years. They can hassle you for the next 3½ years.

[Ladynred]

In reality, a creditor can try to COLLECT until eternity, however, once the state SOL expires, they are no longer able to sue you to ENFORCE collection of that debt. Most creditor/collectors will go away after you notify them that the SOL has expired. That doesn't mean they won't try to sue, but if they're dumb enough to do so, you can get it thrown out by using the SOL as your defense. The problem is, most consumers haven't a clue that there even IS such a thing as the SOL and don't use it.