How to Find Old Debts

Its not always easy locating old debts, especially those from several years ago. It is common for people to forget about old credit card accounts, loans and other types of bills. Quite often, people become overwhelmed with debt and simply push bills aside. In fact, many people eventually forget which creditors they owe. However, there is a way to locate your old credit accounts and bills. Learn how to find old debts in a short amount of time.

Instructions

1

Obtain a copy of your credit report from the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, TransUnion and Experian. You can order your credit report for free by visiting AnnualCreditReport.com. Simply submit your request online or download the appropriate form and mail it to the credit bureaus.

2

Review your credit reports to find your old debts. Take time to carefully read through each credit report line by line to find your old accounts. Make a list of your old debts, including the creditor's name, your account number, outstanding balance and the last date of activity on your account. Please note that the creditors may have sent your debts to a collection agency; so pay careful attention to all collection items listed on your credit reports. They may not be listed under a company name you recognize.

3

Contact the creditors or collection agencies to confirm your old debts. Ask the customer service representative to send you a confirmation letter validating the debt. The letter should state your account balance, including late fees, collection costs and other charges, along with details about your payments. Make sure the representative also sends you a copy of the signed contract or agreement for your records.