I have been served papers for not paying a 3 month old hospital collection debt of 350.00 Scares me just a bit. Is this going to ruin my credit forever and/or does this judgement against us stay for a certain time.

Any advice or anwers?

Thanks

A judgement can last for 20 years, possibly longer. And yes it will affect your credit, but it might not be that bad.

Why wasn't it paid?

Of course a unpaid bill being reported late and no paid each month can ruin your credit report, a judgement will just hurt it worst. Of course it is just 350, can you just not pay it?

Did you go to the hospital and talk to a advocate to try to get it reduced or to work out a payment plan. I was in the hospital last year and got them to write off over 3000 dollars in bills because of my lower income.