Things You'll Need:
- Credit report
- Bank address
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Step 1
Follow standard letter guidelines. You will need specific information for the bank to take action; however, the structure of the letter will be the same as a formal letter.
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Step 2
Decide on a handwritten or typed letter. Handwritten letters connote personality. The person reading your letter will know there's a real person behind the dispute and not a hired agent. Typed letters are more formal and may be easier to maintain a document trail with. Both will contain the same information.
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Step 3
Include your name, address and telephone number in the upper left-hand corner of the page. If you have an email address, include this just below your phone number.
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Step 4
Include your social security number. While this is optional, it will expedite the process and help the reviewer to connect your file to the dispute. Insert this number just below your email address or telephone number.
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Step 5
Write the bank's name and address two spaces below your social security number. Include the date two spaces below this information.
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Step 6
Include a salutation such as "To Whom It May Concern:" two spaces after the date. The body of the letter should begin two spaces below the salutation. Be concise and straightforward. Include a list of each error in your report, stating the issue and whether the error should be edited or fully deleted. The tone will call the banker to action.
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Step 7
End with a sign off two lines below the body of the letter. A simple "Thank you" or "Sincerely" is sufficient. Sign your name and print or type it two spaces below.
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Step 8
Include documentation to support the letter. This includes a copy of any document which proves your disputed item(s) and well as a copy of the credit report in question. This will expedite the process. Put yourself in the shoes of someone who reviews these letters every day. Anything you can do to make it easier for them to research and clear your dispute will make you both happier.
