Default Debt

A question about : Default Debt

Some years ago when I was a student I got into debt with my student account and I defaulted. The debt collectors started chasing me and I agreed to pay X amount every month (which I did and reduced the debt a lot). I then couldnt afford this monthly payment anymore and missed a few, got a couple of letters from the debt collectors but nothing more came from it, I rang debtline and told them that they had threatened me with court action over the sum of about Ј300 and they told me to ignore it and that they wouldnt take me to court over such a sum because it would probably cost them more than that in legal fees etc. I ignored them as advised and heard nothing from them for over 3 years until yesterday I get a letter (at a new address now) from a different debt collector company saying they want the money and that they will sent someone to my house to discuss this with me. Should I let them in ?
The default is due to drop off my credit rating in 2 years so if I set up a payment plan with them will it keep the default on my report longer ? I mean if when its due to drop off my report im still paying it off will it stay on my report longer than the 6 years ?
Thanks x

Best answers:

• DO NOT LET THEM IN TO YOUR HOUSE!!!!!
  They could be a baliff and if you let them in for any reason (even to use your toilet) then the next time they come they can enter your house, whether your there or not and take your stuff.
• Presumably you are sure you don't have a CCJ for this? There isn't one on your credit report at all?
  If not then its not a bailiff just a doorstop debt collector.
  If a doorstop collector turns up just tell them to leave, don't discuss the debt with them. If you want to stop them turning up there is a letter you can send (although obviously that means you have to get in touch with them).
  If you start paying it off now no it won't stay on your credit file any longer, it will still drop off after the 6years from the default.
  Depending on your finances etc if you do decide to start paying if you can put a lump sum together you might well find they would accept a reduced full & final settlement (if you do this route always make offers in writing).
• So should I just ignore the letter like I did last time ? Or could they give me a CCJ even now ?
  I know I don't have a CCJ I've checked my report. Thanks x
• You could still be issued with a CCJ ..... how much is outstanding?
  If you can, it'd be better to see if you can agree a F&F and get it "cleared"