@parus

I'm so sorry to hear of the snafu in billing - how distressing! You never need to apologize for your state of mind on Connect. We are here for every state of mind.

Take care and try to do something nice for yourself today.

I look forward to hearing from you again.

Teresa

@hopeful33250 Thank you so much as I want to be encouraging and not in a funk. The side effects are so distressful, uncomfortable, etc.
I spoke to my insurance agent and he said he has dealt with this before. It is actually illegal for the health care system to turn me over to a collection agency, but I am not into filing any lawsuits nor is my agent. I am not wired to seek revenge as the collection agency was only doing their job not knowing the legalities. Another one of those the right hand does not know what the left is doing. I did know "not" to pay thus. It was upsetting nevertheless. I have never had this happen in my life!!!
Your words are reassuring at a time it feels like everyone is angry with me because I do not fit neatly into their box...I am not doing thus on purpose.
I received a text around 8:30 this morning from my daughter (in law) asking if I could watch my 3 year old grandson while she did some things. What joy filled my heart to have my little scamp come play with me for a while. He loves to see his grandma and since I live in an apartment he thinks the entire building is mine. One of the neighbors came out of her apartment and I introduced him to her. He rather scowled and then looked confused when she entered her sister's apartment across from mine. He is very sociable and not the least bit shy-he was not happy someone else was living in my house that he did not know. Through the eyes of a child.
Even though I was in a funk this visit helped more than I can say.
Needed to share the joy!!!

@parus So glad to hear that some joy dropped into your day in the form of your grandson! What perfect timing. Thanks for sharing that.

Teresa

@parus, I have had my share of issues with collection attempts of every variety. I wonder if there is a senior's pro bono source for simple legal work where you live. Just a letter on attorney letterhead can stop the harassing phone calls and provide that the only way they can contact you is by mail. An unsecured creditor also can not go after assets or wages. Some states, SC is one, allows non-profit health systems to claim tax refunds, but at least that is not usually something we need to live on - try not to have any refund is best. I hope you can stop the harassment.

@gman007 Thanks for the input. The insurance agent is coming on Friday to get the bills, etc. He has dealt with this before and has now been dealing with it even more. ARGH, I do abhor intimidation and harassment! Don't we all??

Yes, we do hate that. Especially those of us who are anxious!! Have you heard of “Tapping?” Something to read about, if you’re interested. I have had some luck with it. Gary Craig or Nick Ortner have info you can google.
I can relate to your love for your Grandson. I have a very close bond with mine too!!

@parus @gman007

Our local senior center coordinates a twice monthly day for free legal aid consults for seniors.

Jim

Agreed and here's some more information about collectors' limitations.
https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0149-debt-collection

@stressedmesseddepressed Thank you for sharing.