Can collection agencies finde my social security number?

by Sandra
(Garden City, NY)

Hello,
I moved from Germany to NY two years ago. One year ago I had an accident and end up with a huge emergency bill. I really do my best but right now I'm not able to pay it.

My question is if a collection agency can find out my social security number ones I have it and affect my credit score?
Thank you
Sandra

Comments for Can collection agencies finde my social security number?

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Apr 27, 2010
 social security number and collection agency
by: Gerri

A collection agency is allowed under the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act to review your credit reports in conjunction with collecting a debt. They are also allowed to report the account to the credit reporting agencies, and yes it will affect your credit.

Under federal law, a collection account may be reported for 7 1/2 years from the date you first fell behind with the original creditor. I believe New York state law limits the reporting of negative information to five years, however.

It sounds like your biggest problem here is not really the credit reports, but finding a way to deal with this debt. If you don't, you may be sued and that will create additional problems for you.

I would encourage you to read our e-book Debt Collection Answers for advice on how to deal with collection accounts. At a minimum, read the first chapter of Debt Collection Answers online for free so you at least have an overview of your rights.

I hope you can find a solution for this.

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