Once it's at a collections stage don't pay it. The status change of paying it causes the time until it expires off your report to reset. You instead send them

Once it's at a collections stage don't pay it. The status change of paying it causes the time until it expires off your report to reset. You instead send them a letter that asks for proof you owe the debt, and ask them to only contact you in writing. Often they won't have their paperwork in order and it will be removed.