Mistakes on your credit report? A “Sample Letter To Request Correction To Credit Report” helps you fix them. This letter tells credit bureaus about errors. These errors can include wrong account details. They may also include incorrect payment history or even identity mix-ups.
Need to write one? We’ve got your back. This article is all about making it easy. We’ll show you different letter examples.
Consider this your shortcut. Use our sample letters as a guide. Tweak them to fit your situation. Get those credit report errors fixed ASAP.
Sample Letter To Request Correction To Credit Report
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Credit Reporting Agency Name]
[Credit Reporting Agency Address]
[Credit Reporting Agency City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Request to Correct Errors in Credit Report
To Whom It May Concern:
I am writing to request a correction to my credit report. I recently obtained a copy of my credit report from your agency, and I found some information that is inaccurate.
Specifically, the following information is incorrect:
[List the inaccurate information, such as incorrect account numbers, wrong balances, accounts that don’t belong to you, etc.]
[For each item, explain why you believe it is inaccurate. Provide specific details.]
I am enclosing copies of [Supporting documents, such as account statements, court documents, or identification] to support my claim.
I request that you investigate these errors and correct my credit report as soon as possible. Please send me an updated copy of my credit report showing the corrections.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
How to Write Sample Letter To Request Correction To Credit Report
Subject Line: The Clarion Call
- Keep it succinct and to the point. Think of it as a headline.
- Examples: “Credit Report Correction Request – Account [Account Number]” or “Dispute of Inaccurate Information on Credit Report.”
- Don’t be verbose. Clarity trumps prolixity.
Salutation: A Courteous Overture
- Address the specific credit bureau (Experian, Equifax, TransUnion).
- Use a formal salutation: “Dear [Credit Bureau Name] Dispute Department,”
- Avoid overly familiar greetings. Maintain a professional mien.
Body Paragraph 1: Identifying the Impugned Report
- State clearly that you are writing to dispute information on your credit report.
- Include your full name, current address, and date of birth.
- Mention that you are attaching a copy of the credit report with the disputed item(s) circled or highlighted. This is crucial for expeditious processing.
- Example: “I am writing to formally dispute inaccuracies appearing on my credit report. Attached is a copy of my report, with the erroneous items highlighted.”
Body Paragraph 2: Pinpointing the Discrepancies
- Be precise about the inaccuracies. Provide the account number, creditor’s name, and the specific detail that is incorrect (e.g., balance, payment history, account status).
- Explain why the information is inaccurate. Is it not your account? Was it paid but still showing as delinquent? Provide substantiating details.
- Avoid emotional rhetoric. Stick to verifiable facts.
- Example: “Account number 12345 with Acme Corporation is listed as delinquent. This is inaccurate as I settled this account in full on January 1, 2024. I have attached proof of payment.”
Body Paragraph 3: Articulating Your Desired Rectification
- State explicitly what you want the credit bureau to do. Do you want the account removed entirely? Do you want the information updated to reflect the correct status?
- Reference any supporting documentation you are including (e.g., payment records, court documents, identity theft affidavit).
- Reiterate your expectation for prompt action.
- Example: “I request that you investigate this matter expeditiously and remove the inaccurate information from my credit report. I have enclosed copies of my cancelled check and the settlement agreement as corroborating evidence.”
Closing: Formal Farewell
- Use a professional closing such as “Sincerely,” or “Respectfully,”
- Include your full name, typed, below your signature.
- Provide your phone number and email address for contact.
- Example:
- Sincerely,
- [Your Full Name]
- (555) 123-4567
- your.email@example.com
Enclosures: The Arsenal of Proof
- List all documents you are including with your letter.
- Examples: “Copy of Credit Report,” “Proof of Payment,” “Settlement Agreement,” “Driver’s License.”
- This provides a clear record of what you sent.
Frequently Asked Questions: Correcting Errors on Your Credit Report
Your credit report plays a vital role in your financial health. Errors can negatively impact your credit score, so it’s important to review your reports regularly and dispute any inaccuracies promptly.
How do I request a correction to my credit report?
You must send a formal written dispute to the credit reporting agency that contains the error. Include a copy of your credit report highlighting the inaccurate information, along with any supporting documentation.
What information should I include in my dispute letter?
Your letter should clearly identify the specific errors, explain why you believe they are inaccurate, and provide your full name, address, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number.
Where do I send my dispute letter?
Send your letter to the address provided by the credit reporting agency on your credit report. Each agency (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) has a dedicated address for disputes.
What happens after I send my dispute letter?
The credit reporting agency is required to investigate your dispute within 30 days (or 45 days under certain circumstances). They will contact the information provider and update your report if the information is found to be inaccurate.
What if the credit reporting agency doesn’t correct the error?
If the credit reporting agency refuses to correct the error, you have the right to add a statement to your credit report explaining your side of the story. You can also consider filing a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB).
