I'm uncomfortable with doing nothing... don't want this thing to snowball. How does this sound as a game plan... 1. Send a CCA request letter. - See if there is anything on there. - If it comes and is all in order... 2. S.A.R - (Subject Access Request) Look at whether it is Statue Barred. - Do I send that to the original bank or Lowells? 3. I'll think about step 3 if I get there.... Thanks for everyone’s help. Places like this restore your faith in humanity.

Sounds like I've not got much choice but to find the cash from somewhere and pay up.

Hello all, my first post here. I need some advice on the next steps to take in my case. I’ve reading solidly for the last day and a half and there is almost too much good advice. Right where I am now… Received a letter from Lowells (5 days ago), saying in summary that my HSBC account had just been sold to them. They have been appointed as “ the duly authorised collection agents for recovery of the outstanding balance” The letter had an account reference that I don’t recognise (looks like a credit card number) and their reference. Received a letter Red Debt Collection Services (a “trading style”!! of Lowells) today. This said that they have been “appointed the duly authorised collection agent for Lowells” The background to this… I did have a HSBC student account (opened in 1997). This came with a combined (visa & Mastercard) credit card. I was in serious financial trouble in 1999 and when I moved house I “forgot” to tell them (looking back I ain’t proud of this!!). 1999 was the last I heard from HSBC until 5 days ago. The sum of the debt (being chased by Lowells) isn’t enough to cover the overdraft I had but is about the right amount for the credit card. So I’m assuming the debt in question is for the credit card (only). Following what I’ve read in here my first steps would be to write the CCA letter, asking for a copy of the agreement. My questions are many but the main ones... 1) My rights to see the credit agreement only applies to the Credit card and not the Overdraft, is this right? 2) How do I know that Lowells have “bought” my debt? Can I ask them to provide some proof? 3) It looks likely that the debt is older than 6 years. I think there is little chance anything has been paid in that period and I’ve had no contact. Does that mean its Statute Barred? How would I prove that? Statements? How do I get hold of them? 4) Assuming the “Statute Barred” defence is right for me & I go for it. Would anything go on my credit record? I’m sure I’ll have some more thoughts in the morning. Thanks in advance for all your help.