Ignore the above question, I poked around on that site you linked and there is a great and lengthy explanation of it all there. I think I at least have a generalized understanding of it.

Would it be a bad idea to simply dispute the items via the online submittal to the CRAs just to see if they disappear that way first, then if the CRAs say they validated the debt begin to send the letters to the CAs? Do the CRAs demand the same proof as outlined in the link:

* Proof that the collection company owns the debt/or has been assigned the debt,
* Complete payment history, starting with the original creditor, and
* Copy of the original signed loan agreement or credit card application

Thanks for your help, it means a lot, sadly I probably will spend most of the work day reading now. Don't tell my boss!!

-Steve