<prompt> Human: So I checked my credit a couple of months ago, and found a balance from a collection agency for 960 bucks from a hospital visit a couple of years ago. So, seeing as how we are trying to buy a house, I called the place to ask about paying it off and getting it removed or marked as paid in full from my credit.They told me that in order to make any changes to my credit, they were gonna have to have my signed or e-signed authorization to contact the credit agencies on my behalf, and I know from this sub that its good to have something in writing from them anyways, so it seemed like a win win. So I updated my information with them, and she said her boss would be sending me something by email and mail and that I needed to sign and return, pay our agreed upon balance which was like 550 bucks and they would show it as paid in full.Nothing. Honestly after a couple of weeks, with a new baby etc etc...I just kind of forgot about it. Until an officer served me at 515 in the morning at my house. Theyre suing me for the 960 plus court costs, but I have an option to call before then and try to work something out. Just wanted some advice from you good people on what my plays are. I didnt call yet because I didnt wanna be talking out of my ass, and I also didnt wanna pay 960 when I could possibly get off for cheaper. Thanks in advance for the help.  <response>: First and most importantly, you need to get in contact with the court clerks where this case is being processed and verify that its authentic. Collection agencies will go to terrible great lengths to get people to pay up with scare tactics and illegitimate legal threats. DONT assume anything though and make sure the case number, plaintiff and defendant names are yours and the collection agencies. It it doesnt come back in the county clerks system then you should file a counter claim of harassment. ALSO did you get the officers name that served you? If not try to find out. Odds are this is legit despite all the red flags but when it comes to legal threats, no matter the subject matter, you need to make sure its all been filed correctly and that its legit.My advice if its real is to seek consult from an attorney who specializes in debt hearings. NEVER admit guilt until you have proper legal representation. Also remember the collection agencies name. File complaints against them if it turns out to be veiled threats. A legal threat for under a 1000 credit collection is absurd and childish... Just clearly assess all options and get a lawyer to properly advise you. That alone could put the breaks on this as most collection agencies wont follow threw if someone gets proper counsel. I wish you the best of luck! 