How to Write Credit Repair Letters

Copyright (c) 2010 Suzy Vanstrusen

We often hear the advice to check on our credit report at least twice a year. But surprisingly, there are people who do not really know what to do next after finding out that their credit report is indeed, inaccurate. Some are intimidated about writing a credit repair letters, not knowing what to say or how to address the problem. In this article, we will talk about what you should do if you find errors, omissions or any inaccuracy in your credit report.

Verify the wrong information. Before even thinking about filing a dispute, make sure that you are in the position to complain. Look closely in your credit report and carefully analyze the items that seem to be erroneous. For instance, if you think the charges are incorrect or have already been paid, check your receipts or past billing statements. You do not want to go through the process of disputing only to find that you were the one mistaken all along. If you really think that you have a valid reason to file a dispute, then you can now proceed to the next step.

Send a dispute letter. Where should you send your dispute letter? This must be addressed to the issuing credit bureau. In order to ensure that your complaint will get the attention it deserves, address your letter to the Complaint Department of the Bureau.

Observe correct letter format. A letter of dispute is a business letter and therefore you should observe correct formatting. Your personal information- complete name, address, telephone number and e-mail address- should be written at the top of your letter so that the bureau would immediately know who is sending the letter and where to send their response.

Explain the problem clearly. You can observe sample credit dispute letter from the web but it is recommended that you compose your own letter. Point out the items that you want to dispute and state your reasons why you think these are errors. Specify if the items you are disputing are wrong or if some data are missing, or if it is incomplete.

Be polite and request the credit bureau to correct these wrong information in your credit report. Include a copy of your credit report and mark the items in dispute so you can refer to them in your letter more easily.

Enclose copies of supporting documents. If you have bills, receipts, transaction records that can help in clarifying the items you are disputing, enclose them in your letter as this can speed up the result of the investigation. Also, enumerate in the last part of your letter all the documents that you enclosed with the mail.

Follow up. It will usually take up to 30 days before the investigation is completed. Nevertheless, it is also recommended to make a follow-up call regarding the status of your dispute at least a week after sending your letter. This way, you would know for sure that your letter has been received and that action is already taking place.