Tim,

I have been repeatedly denied credit because TransUnion
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.

Prior to this 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 TransUnion 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 #99XXXXX -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. TransUnion 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 TransUnion stating that I am not the individual who filed for
bankruptcy. It seems to be having no effect as TransUnion 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,

M.T.

M.T.,

The first thing you should do is get copies of your credit report from all three credit reporting agencies 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

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