3 demanding money after 4 years

robertkydd

My wife received a nasty letter yesterday from 3, stating that after a "review" of their accounting systems, they realised that she still owes them over £100 even though the account was closed and (as far as she knows) paid up over 4 years ago. Of course she can't disprove this as spring cleaning happens regularly in our house, and old bills get shredded.
Are they allowed to do this, and is it legal?

robertkydd

I should probably add... the letter mentions "Lowell Portfolio". I've just been reading up about them in other parts of the forum. Possible scam?

DarkShadow

I suggest going to 3 and telling them to hire a new accountant (preferably someone based in UK)

macman

If the money is owed, then yes it's perfectly 'legal' for them to pursue the debt after 4 years.

Human_Writes

robertkydd wrote: »

Are they allowed to do this, and is it legal?

Yes, legally they have up to six years in which they can pursue you for the debt, just because they didn't pursue you for the money earlier doesn't mean they can't do so now. That being said if the debt is disputed they have to prove that the money is owed.

I'd send them a letter advising you were unaware that you owed them money and asking them to provide evidence which shows that you owe them £100.00.

OneADay

I have read advice on other forums which suggests best option is not to make contact with them. Suggest you do the same - do not write or phone them.

Check your credit history report to find out if there are any bad marks associated with a 3 contract.

Also contact consumer direct (trading standards) for legal guidance on what exactly you should and should not do.

DarkConvict

"Lowell Portfolio"

Was mentioned on here yesterday, they buy in bad debts and pressure people to pay. Something i find totally unacceptable. I would seek free advice from trading standards/CAB, do a free credit check at creditexpert, ring up 3 asking about it, and tell "Lowell Portfolio" there is no debt the account was closed and no money owed.

property.advert

If the account was closed then there is no debt to sell on. A debt could have been sold on and only now being chased. You would have to confirm with 3.