Consumer complaint received 2025-04-29 00:00:00
Product: Debt collection — Telecommunications debt
Issue: Attempts to collect debt not owed — Debt was paid
Company: Harris & Harris, Ltd.
State: MN

Complaint narrative:
Harris and Harris was involved regarding a debt that was being collected on behalf of XXXX XXXX, I believe their subsequent behavior has been unacceptable and very deceptive. 
I called their phone line and was connected to a male representative that was not only short and brash but that led me to believe if I paid the debt there was a high likelihood the debt would be deleted and me being naive and not really aware of the laws and procedures in reference to collecting debt I didnt press the issue further and get it in writing because Ive XXXX other collection account deleted after settling with said company without even them sending me a letter saying they would! I know all debt collection companies are not the same in that regard but the way they handled and have handled this situation is entirely unacceptable. 
The other I believe unfair situation is how they are reporting the credit, I had to dispute with XXXX because they are still showing that I owe {$400.00} on the debt even though it has been settled as they are claiming. 
I have called this company time and time again to see if I can pay the remainder and they have been completely unhelpful they just tell me the account is closed and they do not want to discuss anything with me, I have tried requesting to speak to upper management and have basically just been stonewalled every time. 
I got frustrated in how they were treating me and called XXXX XXXX because Im just at my wits end when it comes to this and I am trying every which way I can to rectify this situation and save my financial life. 
During my phone call with the XXXX representative they were very helpful as I was literally in tears because this whole situation has been so stressful but the lady on the phone comforted me and actually explained that the debt was completely null there was no record of it on their end essentially the debt has been marked off and should no longer even be reported by Harris and Harris is what she said. 
She gave me a confirmation number but I have unfortunately lost that but Im sure I can call again and get it if needed. 
I have done beyond due diligence and I honestly and exhausted by this all, I experienced great hardships that even caused me to get into this situation in the first place but now it feels like I am just being put through the wringer and just being tortured for decisions I made when I was basically just turning XXXX XXXX XXXX. 
I am almost XXXX now and the amount of damage this has caused in my life is unimaginable I have not been able to get a car loan, student loans are almost impossible for me to get I literally can not do anything and it has sent me on a spiral of XXXX  honestly, I feel I could be in a great place if it wasnt for this XXXX dark cloud hovering over my head reminding me of my mistakes. I am willing to do whatever to make this situation just go away I need my financial freedom back! 
This is even painful to write because its bringing back so many hard times and memories but hopefully it can be resolved as Im sure if they had children or anyone they loved in this position they would be singing a whole different tune.

Company public response: Company believes it acted appropriately as authorized by contract or law
Company response to consumer: Closed with explanation