Do you know the business form the former companys were using, LLC ,,   INC

sole prop.,   partnership ????

That would be a good place to start.   Beyond that, I they offer a "payment plan", I

would insist that both the company and any officers, family members, etc., sign

a note that was interest bearing (with a provision that said interest may be

waived upon the last payment of the principal amount.   You may be able to

sell a note, but it surely would need to be interest bearing.

Best bet if no note, SUE.