Waiting for Debt Validation

A debt collector sent me a demand letter to pay a debt that they say I owe. I sent them a letter requesting validation of the debt and requesting proof that they have a license to collect debts in my state. I haven't heard from them yet and it's been over 35 days since they received my letter (I sent the letter via certified mail). Does this mean I'm free of the debt?

If they do not respond make sure they aren't reporting account on your credit report and, if not, then I wouldn't worry too much about it. If on your report then dispute with CRA and advise both you will take them to small claims if info not corrected

If they have not responded within 30 days, send them a certified letter that as such, that under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, as well as the Fair Credit Reporting act, that they are legally required to remove the item from your credit report. Send a copy to the credit reporting agency/ies they've listed with, advising them the item is to be removed, as required by law.

Collection agencies are notorious for violating both acts named above, and you may have to involve the assistance of an attorney who specializes in Consumer Protection.

Of course, these bottom feeders will probably simply sell the account to another collection agency, so expect that in the future.