How to Remove Account Charges From Your Credit Report
If a credit card was charged incorrectly or was charged for a disputed item, the charge must be removed from the credit card account so that it does not reflect negatively on the holder's credit rating. Even if a charge was leveled unfairly or mistakenly, an individual's credit rating only shows that the charge wasn't paid on time if at all. Disputed credit card charges must be removed from the credit card report by the credit card company. This is done by negotiating with both the original creditor as well as the credit card company.
Instructions
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1
Contact the vendor who billed the credit card. A written letter is preferable as this provides a paper trail in case one is ever needed.
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Explain what the error is. Provide concise and accurate details.
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3
Request that the credit card company be contacted to remove the charge.
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If the vendor is not willing to correct the charge, contact the credit card company to file a dispute claim. Follow the procedure as outlined by the credit card company.
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5
Check the next credit card statement to insure that the account charge was removed successfully. If an unpaid charge remains on the credit card, it becomes a "charge-off" and will lower a credit rating so the dispute must be resolved.
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Tips & Warnings
Always check credit card statements to make sure that all charges are accurate. In addition to mistakes and disputes there could be an issue of credit card fraud, theft or identity theft. This must be checked into immediately.