Can I Get Late Payments Removed From My Credit Report?

A late payment on a credit report indicates that a payment was not made by its due date, typically resulting in negative reporting to credit bureaus if it is more than 30 days past due. Such an entry can lower your credit score, potentially impacting your ability to secure future loans, credit cards, or even housing. This article explores pathways to address late payments reported on credit files.

Understanding Conditions for Removal

Late payments may be removed from your credit report under specific circumstances. One scenario involves inaccuracies: if the creditor reported a payment as late when it was on time, or if account details are incorrect, you have grounds to dispute the entry. Verifiable proof that the information is false is required.

Another possibility for removal, even if accurate, is a goodwill adjustment from the creditor. This is a discretionary decision, not a guaranteed right. Creditors may consider such a request for an isolated incident if you have a long history of timely payments with that account, demonstrating a consistent positive payment pattern before and after the reported late payment.

Preparing for Your Request

Before initiating any request, gather specific information and documentation. If you believe a late payment was inaccurately reported, collect your account number, the creditor’s full name, the exact date of the alleged late payment, and evidence of timely payment. This includes bank statements, canceled checks, or payment confirmation emails. Secure any records of past communication with the creditor.

When pursuing a goodwill adjustment for an accurately reported late payment, you will need your account number, the creditor’s name, and the date of the late payment. Prepare a summary of your payment history with that creditor, highlighting consistent on-time payments, especially those leading up to and following the single late incident. Have your full legal name, current mailing address, and reliable contact information available for correspondence.

Disputing Inaccurate Payments

If you identify an inaccurate late payment on your credit report, first obtain copies from Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. Reviewing these reports helps identify which bureau is reporting the erroneous information. You can typically request a free copy from each bureau once every 12 months.

Once the source is identified, initiate a dispute directly with the credit bureau(s) reporting the inaccuracy. This can be done through their online dispute portals or by mail using a dispute letter and providing all relevant supporting documentation. While not strictly required, contacting the original creditor to inform them of the inaccuracy and request correction is beneficial. After filing, the credit bureau typically has around 30 to 45 days to investigate and notify you of the outcome.

Requesting Goodwill Adjustments

For accurate late payments you wish to have removed, direct your request to the original creditor, as credit bureaus do not have the authority to remove accurate information. Sending a polite “goodwill letter” directly to the creditor is a common and effective method. A written record often proves more beneficial than a phone call.

When drafting your goodwill request, maintain a respectful and apologetic tone, acknowledging the late payment occurred. Briefly explain any extenuating circumstances that led to the missed payment without making excuses, and emphasize your otherwise exemplary payment history. Clearly state your polite request for a one-time removal of the late payment as a gesture of goodwill, noting your long-standing relationship. If you do not receive an initial response, a polite follow-up after a few weeks may be appropriate, but understand that removal remains at the creditor’s sole discretion.