Debt collection on deceased

[newt]

I received a letter (no phone calls) from AscensionPoint Recovery Services, LLC out of Coon Rapids, MN. Phone(888)420-2510. The letter is addressed to 'Estate of John Doe.' It offered their condolences and informed me that my husband's Verizon Wireless debt was placed with their office for collection. According to the letter, the original amount was $635.13 but they would settle for $476.35. The date of the letter is Sept 29, 2010 and I have until Oct 27, 2010 to pay this. There is no in the estate to pay this with.

I have no record of this debt or date/year in which it took place. The letter does not include the account number.

1. Should I write a letter to Verizon requesting proof? If so, what should I put in the letter.

2. As for it being my deceased husband's debt, can I still write the CRAs to dispute the claims on his credit report?

3. Will this affect my credit, being the widow of a debt collection claim?

Thanks from Illinois

[chane]

Send the CA a debt validation letter. I don't think you can dispute items on his credit report. Why would you want to?

If it's reporting on your credit report, dispute it.

[newt]

Thank you, this forum is so much help!
I will do that today