Change your Pre-legal agents! Their service is appalling!

I am absolutely disappointed with the service delivery of Barrett & Associates pre-legal department (FNB legal agents.) I have had a defaulted account with FNB for at least 7 years which I thought was paid, when in fact, the account was handed over to Barrett & Associates. In all the years that my account was handed over, I never once received a phone call, email or sms from them to say that I have an account that requires urgent settlement. It was only after I decided to apply for credit, that it came to my attention that I have a historical account that has been handed over. Never mind the fact that I had to phone at least 5 different departments in FNB to get this information. Since receiving the information from Barrett, which has been like pulling teeth, I have settled my account in 2 equal installments, final payment which was made on the 13th of August 2022. I contacted their offices this morning to follow up AGAIN on the progress of this account, as I urgently require a paid up letter from them to have the account removed from my credit report, only to be told that they have STILL not allocated the payment! I also get told "You are not the only customer," which I assume they think is a justifiable excuse for being ***********! Why does it take so long to allocate a payment which has been made much earlier than they expected. I have had to make contact, make arrangements, follow up, etc! For an account which in all essence, should have been prescribed due to no acknowledgement within 3 years of non-payment. I am absolutely gob smacked at the pathetic service and total lack of care, when it comes to someone's lives being put on hold, because of their total laziness or lack of care! @FNB I honestly feel that you should find a new legal agent to handle your default accounts. Their service is appalling.