Do not admit to owing it. Ask for the original contract agreement and the original bill because you don't remember owing anything or ever having an account with them. They have to produce it and they very rarely have the documentation. There is a statue of limitations in every state after which they cannot legally collect a debt. Google "debt statue of limitations in Ohio" or wherever you live and find the limitation in your state. Old bills are sold and resold all the time for pennies on the dollar to collection agencies. If you know you owe it you should pay it. Always get the name and telephone number of the person who called you and who they work for and the date and time. Then tell them you are going to hang up and call they right back to verify they are there. And do so. This gives you a paper trial to prove your actions. Sometimes being forgetful works out well. 8>}