Have you ever had someone try to collect money from you that you don't think you owe? Here's how you can get out of your debt collector problems.

A News 12 viewer Lauryn got Kane in her Corner for her debt collection issue.

"I had a second mortgage that was settled and discharged back in 2012. A collection agency somehow obtained this discharged, settled mortgage. I believe this is also way past the statute of limitations. This is very suspicious," she says.

Lauryn raised two different issues.

The big one is that she says the debt is settled, which would mean she owes nothing.

If a debt collector calls you and you don't believe you owe the money, experts say ask them to document the debt in writing.

Then, send proof of payment or confirm with the original creditor that the debt is paid and tell the debt collector to contact them.

The second issue is the statute of limitations.

Each state has a time limit after which the debt becomes uncollectible.

In New Jersey, it's four to six years. In New York, it is three to six years, and in Connecticut -- it is six years.

Lauren says her debt is 10 years old, so even if she hadn't paid, that debt would be uncollectible.

That doesn't mean debt collectors can't try to collect.

They can still ask you to pay, they just can't take you to court if you don't.

So, if you are contacted about a debt that's past its expiration date, tell the debt collector the collection time has expired and to stop calling you.

Whatever you do, don't make a payment. Because if you do, you could restart the clock.

If you have a consumer story that needs to be investigated, you can get Kane in Your Corner by calling 732-738-KANE or emailing KaneInYourCorner@news12.com.

Here's more information to send tips.