topic Re: Can I skip pre-HIPAA letter if I know debt is valid? in Rebuilding Your Credit

Can I skip pre-HIPAA letter if I know debt is valid?

Anonymous — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 16:12:01 GMT

My dad has a medical collection that he knows he owes. I had called the OC and they said that they can not accept payment as they sold the debt to a CA. Since I know the amount is valid, can I skip the pre-HIPAA letter and just send the cashier's check to OC with appropriate letter?

Thanks!

Re: Can I skip pre-HIPAA letter if I know debt is valid?

Anonymous — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 16:16:52 GMT

Not if you want it eventually deleted. Remember that when it says you have no knowledge of an account, it simply means you don't have any specific records for it, even if you believe somehow there is a debt of some sort. What you are asking them to do is document it. Once they do, THEN you have knowledge of it, and then you will pay it.

Follow the HIPAA process specifically. It is not easy to keep straight, but it's working for me, and has for many others.

Message Edited by likewise on 10-10-2008 12:16 PM

Re: Can I skip pre-HIPAA letter if I know debt is valid?

Anonymous — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 16:25:41 GMT

@Anonymous wrote:
Not if you want it eventually deleted. Remember that when it says you have no knowledge of an account, it simply means you don't have any specific records for it, even if you believe somehow there is a debt of some sort. What you are asking them to do is document it. Once they do, THEN you have knowledge of it, and then you will pay it.

Follow the HIPAA process specifically. It is not easy to keep straight, but it's working for me, and has for many others.
Message Edited by likewise on 10-10-2008 12:16 PM

OK, will do - thanks! I already have the letter prepared and the certified mail tag attached - will hit the post office on the way to work.

Today is my first time attempting HIPAA process - I'm kinda excited!