 TITLE: What Is a Charge-Off? CONTENT: Should You Pay Charged-Off Accounts?\n------------------------------------\nThe outstanding balance on a charge-off account is still your debt, and you are legally responsible to pay it—to the original creditor or the agency that buys the debt. Furthermore, lenders who see unpaid charge-offs or collections may question your willingness and ability to repay future debts. Some will likely consider any charge-off grounds for declining a credit application, but some lenders will view paid charge-offs more favorably than unpaid accounts. END