Debt is paid but remains on report

[chameleon4242]

I recently settled a debt that was on my credit report. I owed a sum on an old credit card and it went to collections. I called and they offered me a settlement, which I agreed on and paid them over the phone. A few days later I received a letter in the mail stating the debt was considered closed. The next time I checked my credit report, the debt still remained, minus the amount we agreed to settle for. They just subtracted the amount from the total balance. I disputed it and they told the credit agencies it was legit. I even sent in a copy of the release letter and the debt still remains. How can I fight this? I have the release letter saying the debt is satisfied but am being met with nothing but resistance by the credit agencies. I am nor trying to get it removed, just updated saying the debt is paid.

 

[Michael Wechsler]

What are the credit agencies telling you? How did you dispute it with them?

 

[chameleon4242]

I disputed online and I also sent a letter to each of the three agencies with a photocopy of the letter of release. The agencies all returned letters with new credit report copies stating the collection agency verified the debt. Experian even sent a letter back to me stating "we can not use that letter" in reference to the release letter.

 

[Michael Wechsler]

Did you contact the creditor regarding their erroneous verification of an invalid debt after receiving those reports from the credit agencies? Why were you told it could not be accepted? In some instances you need to include copies of a phone bill or government identification, etc. It may not be the letter itself that is invalid.

 

[chameleon4242]

Thank you for your replies. I did send a letter to the creditor with a copy of the release letter. They did not reply. The reporting agencies did not give a reason why they could not use the letter. They just stated they could not.