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Letters to Tim
TransUnion Credit Report


Tim,

I have been repeatedly denied credit because TransUnion PO Box 2000 Chester, PA 19022 is falsely reporting that I have filed for bankruptcy. I have made an honest effort to resolve this situation with them directly for the last eight weeks.

I have also filed a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission, reference #234***.

Prior to Trans-Union's false report my credit rating was exemplary. In fact, just a few months before this incident,

I applied for and was granted a mortgage for a new home. In the process of working with Trans-Union representatives to remove the false information from my report I was met with a variety of ruses (including shunting my requests for further assistance to voice mail): "The computer won't let me dispute this item." "You can't dispute this item with us, you'll have to contact our subsidiary." "Yes, I know you sent the FAX to Pennsylvania but you'll have to FAX it here, too." The crux of the problem is a matter of public record - Docket #99***** - in the Western District of Kentucky United States Bankruptcy Court.

The unfortunate individual who did file for bankruptcy there and whose name is on the docket has a Social Security number that differs from mine by one digit.

Trans-Union attached all the information from that case to my credit report. I found the staff of the Bankruptcy Court in Louisville to be responsive, cooperative and very helpful. They have sent FAX's and letters to Trans-Union stating that I am not the individual who filed for bankruptcy. It seems to be having no effect as Trans-Union continues to maintain that "their sources confirm that I have filed for bankruptcy."

I don't know how to resolve this matter.

Could you possibly help me?

Sincerely,

Michael T.

Kentucky

Tim's Answer

Michael,

The first thing you should do is get copy’s of your credit report from all three credit reporting agency’s

Equifax, Trans Union and Experian the contact numbers for them are listed at the end of this message. The reason you need all three is to verify that the incorrect information is not on all of them.

The cost for the reports averages $8.00 per report but they are free if you have been denied credit within the last 30 days. After you have received all three reports fill out the dispute form for each one that has inaccurate information and send it along with your documentation via Certified Mail Return Receipt Requested. The reporting agencies have 60 days to respond.

If this doesn't resolve the problem then you have no alternative but to contact an attorney and file suit under the Fair Credit Reporting Act. If you prevail your attorney fees as well as damages will be awarded.

I suggest that if it becomes necessary to seek the advice of an attorney that you interview several and select one that has expertise in this area of law and will take the case on a contingency basis.

Please let me know the outcome.

Tim

How can I get a copy of my credit report?

TRW/Experian http://www.experian.com/ PO Box 8030 Layton, Utah 84041-8030 Cost: $8.00 (see exceptions link below) Procedure: In writing only Phone:(800) 682-7654 (800) 422-4879 7/21/94 A. TRW will supply credit reports from an automated system by calling 800 392-1122.

Equifax http://www.equifax.com/ PO Box 740241 Atlanta, GA 30374-0241. FAX request to: (404) 612-2668 Cost: $8.00 (Maryland +$5.00, ME & MT +$3.00) Procedure: Write or fax Phone:(800) 685-1111 (800) 525-6285

Trans-Union http://www.transunion.com/index.jsp P.O. Box 390 Springfield, PA 19064-0390 Phone: 404-396-0961 (800) 680-7289 (800)-999-4213 Cost: $8.00 individual, $16.00 husband & wife Procedure: Write or call 610-933-1200 (call *only* if denied credit in last 60 days)

Please have the following information on-hand when you call. All of the information is needed to compile a complete and accurate copy of your credit report. Full name (including generation, such as Jr., Sr., III) Current and previous addresses (for a five-year period) with zip codes (if you have moved within the past six months, include two proof documents such as copies of a utility bill, credit card billing statement, or driver license.) Spouse's first name, if married Social Security number Date of birth

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