Obtain copies of your credit reports from all three bureaus
Identify the collection account and verify all details
Dispute any inaccurate, incomplete, or outdated information with each bureau
Request debt validation from the collection agency
Check whether the debt is past the credit reporting time limit
Negotiate a pay-for-delete agreement if the collector is willing
Pay the collection if it is valid and still reportable, if appropriate
Ask the original creditor to recall the debt if possible
Send all disputes and requests in writing and keep copies
Follow up until the credit report is updated or the collection is removed