Once upon a time a debt collector telephoned Little Red Riding Hood’s grandmother about a medical bill. “But I paid that bill two years ago,” Grandma Riding Hood told the caller. Still, the caller insisted there was an outstanding balance and started asking for personal information, saying, “I have to be sure I am talking to the right person, so could you give me your date of birth, address, Social Security number, and account number you used to pay the bill?” Little Red Riding Hood happened to be visiting her grandmother that day and overhearing the conversation. “Grandma, ask for something in writing,” she told her. “But I do not want to be rude,” said the Grandmother. “After all, this was for Dr. Wolf who made that house call when I was sick.” “He locked you in the closet!” Little Red exclaimed. “He said it was good for my rheumatism,” Grandma Riding Hood replied. “He was going to eat me!” Little Red protested further. “Well, he was on a special diet, dear.” “Grandma, these debt collectors are required to send you something within 5 days in writing, and then you have 30 days to dispute the debt. That will give […]
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