In 2008 Wachovia merged with Wells Fargo to create one of the largest financial institutions in the country. As such, all Wachovia accounts became part of the Wells Fargo brand. Despite the fact that the merger was completed in 2008, many Wachovia customers didn't actually see a change in their local banks for quite some time. Additionally, all Wachovia account holders retained the same account numbers for both deposit and credit accounts.
Verify The Debt
If you have been contacted by a collection agency about an old debt with Wachovia Bank, first and foremost, contact your local Wells Fargo branch to verify the debt in question. You may also call 1-800-869-3557 to speak with a customer service representative 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Request copies of all transactions regarding the supposed debt. Well's Fargo often sells old debt to outside collection agencies, a practice for which it has received scrutiny in the past.
Zombie Debt
Often referred to as zombie debt, long forgotten debt can wreak havoc on your life. It's purchased by debt collections agencies for pennies on the dollar after years of dormancy. If you have been contacted about a dormant debt, contact your state's consumer affairs office. Statute of limitations on debt collection vary from state to state and it is entirely possible that the collection agency is violating FTC regulations by attempting to collect outdated debt.