I have been asked, by a debt collecting agency, to address old medical bills.

The bills date back from 11/02 through 11/03.

If I had received any information during this time, I was not in any state of mind, because I don't recall any bills (it is possible due to mental illness)

2 months ago this agency called requesting payment in full for services rendered, I have not ever received a letter or phone call,as much as I can recall, from them before.

The bills from a workers comp case were finally cleared and this is when the collection agency got the rest of the 'old bills' sent over to them from the hospital.

I have had repeated conversations with them since, accepting the debts for daughters care, yes, I said I did see that i should pay them since she was underage and in my care.(apparently a bad move, but done anyway)

Is there a limitation on time for these bills?
Is there a way I can negotiate for less payment on them?(I am on disability,making less than $550 a month,thats not much to pay bills on, much less a medical bill totaling more than $700.)

I am in Illinois,and I did look at the state time limits for bills/collection, but I didn't see anything for medical bills.

Thanks for any help you can give me.

KBC

I, for one, would like to see what you can do also,

My daughter is struggling with old medical bills from PA. and I am not sure how to help her either.

Maybe by posting, this will keep this thread on top.

Sorry this wasn't an answer,but maybe it'll be addressed by some that have some answers.

Ken

ScottGem

First, the only limit on bills is how long before they can no longer sue you to collect. The Bills themselves NEVER expire.

Yes you can try to negotiate. If your only income is SSI and you have no tangible assets, you are essentially judgement proof. So if you offer them anything they may jump at it.