Pioneer Credit Recovery Fraudulent Recovery Effort PCR Attempting to collect an imaginary debt ripoff Arcade New York

First, the background: Approximately five years ago (May of 2002), I trained and began working for the Transportation Security Administration at the Nashville, TN airport. Due to a personal tragedy with my wife, I resigned my position. I was paid for all my hours worked and not a bit more.

Now, fast forward to last week, (May 12, 2007), I get a letter in the mail from PCR. I open it up and it says it's in reference to a Dept of Homeland Security 'debt' for over $1263.50 and lists a Treasury Account number. At first, I didn't connect my old job to this 'debt'. I call PCR and the woman on the phone tells me that I owe the money due to 'overpayment', and can I give her a credit card number.

I immediately told her that I was never 'overpaid' (how can you be overpaid for your job?) and that I would dispute this 'debt'. She said that I'd have to write them a letter, which I am doing now.

I am also currently waiting for an HR representative from the Nashville TSA to call me back. I spoke with the National HR call center and was advised, when I gave him my social security number, that he showed no outstanding 'debt' owed for anything, much less overpayment. Hopefully, when I hear back from the local representative, she'll get this straightened out.

Anyway, my only question is, to any of you other debt collector types, What is the limitations on how long there can be a 'debt' for overpayment before they can't collect? I went nearly five years to the day without a peep, and now suddenly, the US Government needs $1263.50 from me? What? Not enough tax money coming in this season?

David
Nashville, Tennessee
U.S.A.