Must i sign a release

Must i sign a release when I pay off the collection agency on my credit card debt?

Well you want a release so they dont try collecting from you again -- and to prove you all agreed it is a final settlement or payment.

Never pay off the debt without something in writing saying that it is fully paid!!

Never give out debit or credit card information to a collection agency. Never give out checking account or savings account information to a collection agency.

Never even acknowledge a debt as belonging to you if contacted by a collection agency. Ask them in writing (certified return receipt requested) to VALIDATE, (not verify) the debt as belonging to you. Do not sign the letter, instead type your name where you'd normally close the letter.

Never speak with a collection agency over the phone.

Once you pay off a debt to a collection agency, it starts the 7 year clock. That is, if it was due to drop off your credit report tomorrow, and you paid tomorrow, the item will now stay on your credit report for 7 more years.

Great words of advice!! Thx