How to clean up inaccuracies in credit reports??

[Coleroo]

Hiya!

I've just undertaken the job of clearing up inaccuracies a relative's credit report. Two of the bureaus look perfect, no problems. However, in Experiean, it seams that over 8 accounts belonging to his brother - and one account belonging to a man of the same name as he - is listed! All 8 of these accounts are in collection too.

They even have incorrect social security numbers listed as "his" on the same record!!! (how in the world can that be possible???)

Here's a run down

Addresses - 5 incorrect

Names - 6 other names (5 of which are mixed spellings of his brother's name)

Social Security #'s - 3 different #'s listed (one belonging to his brother, which is only one digit off from his) and one that is sooo different from his that i have no idea why the bureau would let it be put on there!!

The incorrect accounts range from utility companies to medical bills with thousands and thousands of dollars involved!

He doesn't believe in any way that his brother has done anything underhanded - it's simply a mistake on Experian's part....the 2 brothers were born in the early 50s when it wasn't required to register a child in the hospital - they went with their dad to get their socials on the same day and were given socials that are only one number different - and they reside at the same address.


So ....my question is....

I'm about to set off on my journey to figure out what we have to do to clear this up (call experian?? write them a letter?? im not sure yet) - but I wanted to first bring my question to the people I KNOW know financial stuff...

Do you guys have any experience with clearning up inaccuracies?? What should I go about doing first??


Thanks so much!!

........and now it's off to google i go.......

[jasanderson]

You should ALWAYS do everything in writing so you have a paper trail. You may be able to actually dispute online with them but it sounds a little complicated and sometimes it's form questions you fill out. You may want to write a very detailed, very accurate letter along with copies of the report highlighting what is wrong and notate next to it what is wrong and what should be corrected.

Once you send the letter off you should do so that you can get some type of proof of delivery - whether you use the post office or UPS/FEDEX, etc. In the letter tell them you need a response (in writing) within 30 days of receipt of the actions that have been taken. After 30 days if you do not have a response call there and ask to speak to a manager. If they do not clear up the matter in that time frame send another letter giving them 15 days to clear it up or you will contact the Attorney General's office to complain. Hate to say it but you have to be firm because they literally have you in the palm of their hands and they work at their own sweet time.

[sweeps]

Correcting Credit Reports

One interesting tidbit:

The credit reporting agencies do not use social security numbers as the primary identifier. Usually they are going to check name and address first.

[Coleroo]

thanks so much!!! i'll update with results whenever i get this stuff sorted through!

[MoneyenoM]

Good to know. Thank you guys