We never tell people don't pay your debt, but, remember once they contact you, they have to send you what's called the initial letter. That letter gives you the ability to dispute the debt, and tell them that you don't owe how much they're asking for, and that perhaps you might owe a smaller amount or owe nothing at all. So, don't forget to dispute the debt.  Also, check your statute limitations in your states, they differ. Some states have four years, others have six years, but if you're paying a debt that's beyond the statute of limitations, you might be incurring an obligation you don't have.