[fwd]

Originally Posted by schteve_d

Would it be worth my contacting them and reminding them that they didn't have to hunt me, I contacted them and voluntarily paid the full amount that very day and ask that they stop reporting it to make the thing go away somewhat quicker?

The entry will "fall off" SIX years after the "date of last activity" (when you paid) in Alberta (If you're bored, http://www.qp.alberta.ca/574.cfm?pag...cln=0779743369 )

More than 80% of credit institutions use Equifax, and the rest use TransUnion. Some, including CMHC, check both. So, you should check both bureaux at least once a year. (I have requested the free report from Equifax 3 months after the previous request, with no problem).

If you're concerned about theft, identity fraud, etc. you should consider identity theft insurance, which is about $35 per year, compared to the $14 per month.

The free credit reports contain the same info as the paid reports, and is the same info that the lenders see.

You should WRITE (put it in writing, baby) the bureaux 4 months before the six years is up, and ensure that the dates jive, and that they will "fall off" at the proper time (the bureaux will [and must] respond to letters).

One of the better sites discussing collection agencies and credit bureaux is www.canadian-money-advisor.ca