Note: The DearEsq free 'ask a lawyer' site is offered as a free informational service to the public and is not intended as legal advice. Laws vary from state-to-state, and in addition every situation is unique, and relevant facts may not be known. The answer to the question posed below may not apply to in your state or to your situation. For legal advice in your state and your situation you should consult with an attorney in your state who is familiar with the rules and laws in your state.
“Hello, how long can a phone company seek payment? I just received a collection notice from 12 yrs ago, in my ex- married name. My ex- husband I found out is deceased and I believe if there is such a bill he had his hands on it. I check my credit yearly and have never seen anything or heard anything about this. I am trying to dispute it of course but legally how long can someone seek payment. I am a resident of another state and have since remarried, I have a successful business and own my own home. I don’t want anyone or any thing hurting what we have worked so hard for.”
Question: Without knowing a lot more facts, it’s hard to say just exactly what the rights of the phone company are. But I wonder whether you were ever in any way responsible for incurring the bill and, if so (or even if not) if the amount of the bill is not less then it would cost to fight it legally. If so, perhaps it would make sense to just pay it.
