Sued for a Debt That Isn't Yours? What to Do

Debt buyers work from bulk data, and mistakes happen — wrong person, mixed files, already-paid or bankruptcy-discharged accounts. If you're sued over a debt that isn't yours, do not ignore it. Silence becomes a default judgment against you anyway.

Respond and deny

File an answer denying the allegations and stating the debt is not yours. Then use discovery to force the plaintiff to produce proof — the signed agreement and an account history with your identifying information.

Common "not mine" situations

• Identity mix-up — similar name, same address history, or identity theft
• Already paid or settled — keep your proof of payment
• Discharged in bankruptcy — collection on it may violate the discharge order