A “Sample Letter To Remove Hard Inquiry From Credit Report” is a request. It asks credit bureaus to take off an inquiry. This happens when a company checks your credit. You might need this if you didn’t approve the check. Or, if there’s an error on your report.
Writing letters can be tough. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We’ll share letter templates. These will help you remove those unwanted inquiries.
Ready to clean up your credit report? Keep reading for sample letters. Use them to get those hard inquiries removed. Let’s get started!
Sample Letter To Remove Hard Inquiry From Credit Report
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Credit Bureau Name]
[Credit Bureau Address]
[Credit Bureau City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Request to Remove Hard Inquiry
Dear [Credit Bureau Name] Dispute Department,
I am writing to request the removal of a hard inquiry from my credit report. This inquiry is affecting my credit score.
The inquiry in question is:
* Creditor’s Name: [Name of Creditor]
* Date of Inquiry: [Date of Inquiry]
* Account Number (if known): [Account Number]
I did not authorize this credit check. [Choose ONE of the following reasons and remove the others:]
* I never applied for credit with this company.
* I applied for credit, but did not give permission for a hard inquiry.
* This inquiry is a result of identity theft.
I am enclosing a copy of my [Driver’s License/State ID] and [Social Security Card/Utility Bill] for verification purposes.
Please investigate this matter and remove the unauthorized hard inquiry from my credit report as soon as possible.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
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How to Write Letter To Remove Hard Inquiry From Credit Report
1. Subject Line: Clarity is Paramount
The subject line is your initial communiqué. Be direct. Opt for:
- Subject: Request to Remove Hard Inquiry
- Subject: Dispute of Credit Inquiry – [Your Name] – [Account Number]
Avoid being overly verbose or accusatory here. Precision is key.
2. Salutation: Addressing the Right Arbiter
Identify the specific credit bureau or creditor responsible for the inquiry. If known, use a contact person’s name. Otherwise, default to:
- Dear Credit Bureau Inquiry Department,
- To Whom It May Concern,
Steer clear of informal greetings. Maintain a professional mien.
3. Introduction: Laying the Groundwork
Succinctly state the purpose of your missive. Include:
- Your full name, current address, and contact information.
- The date of the letter.
- A clear statement that you are formally disputing a hard inquiry on your credit report.
Example: “I am writing to formally dispute a hard inquiry appearing on my credit report. My name is [Your Name], and my current address is [Your Address]. This letter is dated [Date].”
4. Body Paragraph 1: Pinpointing the Errant Inquiry
Provide meticulous details about the inquiry you’re contesting. This includes:
- The name of the creditor or company that made the inquiry.
- The approximate date the inquiry was made.
- Any account number associated with the inquiry (if available).
Explain why you believe the inquiry is unwarranted. Perhaps it was made without your explicit consent or is linked to an application you never submitted. Be candid but avoid emotional outbursts.
5. Body Paragraph 2: Substantiating Your Claim
Bolster your argument with pertinent evidence. If the inquiry was made in error:
- State that you never authorized the credit check.
- If you suspect identity theft, mention you’ve already filed a police report.
- If you closed an account, specify the closure date and assert that no further inquiries should be made.
Highlight any mitigating circumstances that corroborate your assertion. The more supporting details, the better.
6. Request: A Formal Demand
Explicitly request the removal of the hard inquiry from your credit report. Use unequivocal language:
- “I respectfully request that you remove this unauthorized hard inquiry from my credit report forthwith.”
- “I urge you to investigate this matter and promptly expunge the aforementioned inquiry.”
Indicate that you expect a written confirmation of the removal. This establishes a paper trail and facilitates follow-up actions if needed.
7. Closing: A Cordial but Firm Farewell
End your letter with a professional closing. Choose:
- Sincerely,
- Respectfully,
Followed by your full name and signature. Retain a copy of the letter for your records. Send the letter via certified mail with return receipt requested to ensure proof of delivery.
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Frequently Asked Questions: Removing Hard Inquiries
This section addresses common queries regarding the process of disputing and potentially removing hard inquiries from your credit report. Understanding this process can help you maintain a healthy credit profile.
What is a hard inquiry and why does it matter?
A hard inquiry occurs when a lender checks your credit report to make a lending decision. Too many hard inquiries in a short period can negatively impact your credit score.
When should I consider disputing a hard inquiry?
You should dispute a hard inquiry if you did not authorize the credit check, if it was performed without your knowledge, or if you believe it is inaccurate.
What information should I include in my dispute letter?
Your dispute letter should include your full name, address, date of birth, the specific inquiry in question, the reason for the dispute, and a copy of your identification.
Where should I send my dispute letter?
Send your dispute letter directly to the credit bureau (Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion) that is reporting the inaccurate inquiry.
How long does it take to remove a hard inquiry?
The credit bureau typically has 30-45 days to investigate your dispute. If the inquiry is found to be invalid, it should be removed promptly.