Got a collections notice for a debt I dont recognize - do I just ignore it?

DO NOT ignore it, but also DO NOT pay anything or even acknowledge the debt on the phone. **Step 1: Send a debt validation letter** Within 30 days of receiving the notice, send a written letter (certified mail, return receipt) demanding they validate the debt. They must prove: - The debt is actually yours - The amount is correct - They have the right to collect it Google "debt validation letter template" - its pretty standard. **Step 2: Check your records** Pull your medical records, insurance EOBs from that date. Could be a billing error, wrong person, or zombie debt. **Step 3: If they cant validate** They must stop collection attempts and remove from your credit if reported. **Step 4: If it IS somehow legitimate** Negotiate a pay-for-delete or settlement. **Common scenarios for mystery medical debt:** - Lab work billed separately from doctor visit - Insurance denied something you didnt know about - Billing error / wrong patient - Actual scam or zombie debt collector Never admit to the debt or make payments until validated. That restarts the statute of limitations.

This exact thing happened to me last year. Turned out it was a legit debt but from an ER visit where they billed the wrong insurance. Definitely dont ignore it but also dont pay until you verify. The validation letter approach the other commenter mentioned is spot on.

Check your insurance EOBs from that time period too. Sometimes theres a legit bill you forgot about that got sent to collections because the address was wrong or something. But yeah never pay without validation first.