Need your credit report but prefer snail mail? A “Sample Letter To Request Your Credit Report By Mail” is what you need. It’s a written request to get a copy of your credit history from a credit bureau. You might need this if you don’t want to request it online or if you have limited internet access.
Writing such a letter can feel daunting. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. This article provides ready-to-use templates.
We’ll share samples of this letter. These samples will make writing your own letter easy. You can adapt them to fit your specific situation.
Sample Letter To Request Your Credit Report By Mail
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Equifax
P.O. Box 740241
Atlanta, GA 30374
Experian
P.O. Box 4500
Allen, TX 75013
TransUnion
P.O. Box 2000
Chester, PA 19016
Subject: Request for Credit Report
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to request a copy of my credit report.
My personal information is as follows:
* Full Name: [Your Full Name]
* Date of Birth: [Your Date of Birth]
* Social Security Number: [Your Social Security Number]
* Current Address: [Your Current Address]
* Previous Address (if applicable): [Your Previous Address]
I would appreciate it if you could send the report to my current address.
Thank you for your time and assistance.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
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How to Write Letter To Request Your Credit Report By Mail
Subject Line: Clarity is Key
Start with a subject line that’s as clear as crystal. Something like “Request for Credit Report” or “Credit Report Inquiry” will suffice. Don’t obfuscate; be direct.
Salutation: A Courteous Overture
Address the credit bureau with a formal salutation. “Dear Equifax,” “Dear Experian,” or “Dear TransUnion” works splendidly. If you’re uncertain of the specific department, “To Whom It May Concern” is a serviceable fallback.
Introduction: State Your Intentions
Open with a concise declaration of your purpose. For instance:
- “I am writing to formally request a copy of my credit report.”
- “This letter serves as a request for my credit report, as entitled under the Fair Credit Reporting Act.”
Succinct and to the point – just how they like it.
Body: Essential Particulars
This section requires meticulous attention to detail. Include:
- Full Name: As it appears on official documentation.
- Current Address: Where you currently reside.
- Previous Addresses: For the past two years, if applicable.
- Date of Birth: For identification purposes.
- Social Security Number (SSN): Crucial for accurate report retrieval.
- A Photocopy of a Government-Issued ID: For example, a driver’s license or passport.
- A Copy of a Utility Bill or Bank Statement: To corroborate your address.
Accuracy is paramount here; discrepancies can delay the process.
Requesting the Free Annual Report: Know Your Rights
Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), you’re entitled to one free credit report annually from each of the three major credit bureaus. Explicitly state if you’re requesting this free report.
For example: “I am requesting my free annual credit report as mandated by the Fair Credit Reporting Act.”
Closing: Gracious Farewell
End with a polite closing. “Sincerely,” or “Yours faithfully,” followed by your signature and typed name, is standard practice.
Postscript: Double-Check Everything
Before dispatching, meticulously review your letter and attachments. Ensure all information is correct and legible. A modicum of diligence now can obviate potential headaches later.
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Frequently Asked Questions: Requesting Your Credit Report by Mail
This section provides answers to common questions regarding how to request your credit report via mail.
Understanding the process can help ensure you receive your report efficiently and securely.
Why would I request my credit report by mail?
Requesting by mail is a viable option if you prefer a physical copy or encounter difficulties verifying your identity online.
Where do I send my credit report request?
Mail your request to Annual Credit Report Request Service, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281.
What information do I need to include in my request letter?
Include your full name, current address, previous address (if you’ve lived at your current address for less than two years), Social Security number, date of birth, and a copy of a valid government-issued photo ID and a proof of address.
How long does it take to receive my credit report by mail?
Allow approximately two to three weeks for processing and delivery after your request is received.
Is there a fee to request my credit report by mail?
You are entitled to one free credit report annually from each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). Requesting by mail does not incur any additional fees.