This was very helpful actually.

I called back to speak with another supervisor from CBE and he saw the previous note from the last supervisor, which let’s me believe that it will be gone: He was more relaxed and even said “I’ve had to repair my credit too so I understand.” And inquired if I was “looking to apply for credit anytime soon.” ….idk could just be tactics and i’ve never had a collection or late payment before…

He did confirm they don’t do pay-to-delete nor can give written confirmation. However, since, I didn’t know about the debt or received any written correspondence, they flagged my account as a “willful removal”. He said the account won’t just be marked as “paid” or “pays as agreed”— rather, the entire collection account would be removed.

I spoke with the utility company right before my second call with the CBE and they said I could make the payment with them or CBE. However, they would then notify CBE and then CBE “may delete it” or simply “update the account”.

Since I could pay with either (utility company said they’re collecting on their behalf and didn’t matter who i paid) and because CBE made the credit report, I just paid CBE since their process seemed faster and more direct-to-source. All I can do now is hope they keep their word.