There are many instances where you may need to write a dispute letter. A collection dispute, credit dispute, debt collection dispute and many more will require you to write a dispute letter to the concerned parties. Whatever your reasons, there is a specific format that you should follow when writing a dispute letter.
Formal language should be used, and you should also ensure that you include the correct details.
What to Include
- Just like writing a job application letter, there are rules that should be followed when writing a dispute letter. But even before we go into details, it is advised that you keep a copy of the credit dispute letter for future reference.
- One of the things that you have to include in the dispute letter is proof supporting the dispute. If, for instance, your lender reports to the credit bureau that you did not send payment on time, you can include a copy of a canceled check which indicates that the payments were actually made on time and also keep a copy of it.
- Once you file the dispute, it takes up to 30 days for credit reporting agencies to investigate the case. Sending the letter through a certified mail can be a good option and it can also help you track the time.
Format for writing a dispute letter
Address
City/ state/ zip code
Dear sir/madam,
I am writing to request an investigation of the following;
Dispute 1
Name the dispute source (it may be a lender, employer, credit card company etc)
Type of item
Account number of identifier
Dispute 2 (if any)
The same format is followed
The item that I have identified in my credit report is (incomplete or inaccurate) because (give your reason and attach any supporting documents if any).
I, therefore, request for this item to be (adjusted or deleted) for my credit report to reflect accurate information.
Attached are all the necessary supporting documents.
Sincerely,
Name
List supporting documents( if any)
Example of a credit dispute letter
02/18/2019
Equifax information services LLC
Po box 740256
Atlanta GA 30374
dear Sir/Madam,
I recently received a copy of my credit report and realized some information was inaccurate. I would, therefore, want to file the following dispute;
Dispute 1
(Company name, account number)
The account has been fully paid
I, therefore, request the information to be updated in my credit report.
I have enclosed copies of the documents that support this dispute. Kindly investigate this issue and correct the disputed item as soon as possible.
Sincerely
Albert Freda
Enclosures;
List your enclosed documents if any. Do not include this section if you have not included any supporting documents)
Types of dispute letters
Debt dispute letter
- The amount in dispute
- The original lender’s full names and address
- Supporting documents showing that you really owe the debt
- Documents showing that the company (if it is a debt collection agency) is authorized to collect the debt.
Credit dispute letter
- Late payments
- Collections
- Bankruptcies that have stayed in your credit report for more than 10 years
- Late payments that have stayed in your credit report for more than 7 years among others.
