How to Ask a Credit Card Company to Remove a Late Payment

A late payment mark on your credit report can significantly impact your financial standing. Creditors typically report late payments 30 days or more past due to major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Such a mark can lower your credit score, potentially affecting your ability to secure future loans, credit cards, or even housing at favorable terms. Fortunately, credit card companies sometimes offer a “goodwill adjustment” or “courtesy removal” to remove an accurate late payment from your credit history. This article will guide you through the process of requesting such a removal.

Understanding Your Eligibility

Before requesting, understand the circumstances under which a credit card company might consider removing a late payment. This is generally a courtesy, not a guaranteed right, as creditors are required to report accurate information to credit bureaus. A strong candidate for a goodwill adjustment often has a history of consistent on-time payments, making the late payment an isolated or rare occurrence. Chances of removal may improve if the payment was only slightly past due, especially if made within 30 days of the due date before being reported.

Paying any associated late fees promptly also demonstrates responsibility and can be a factor in your favor. The more established your relationship with the credit card company and the longer your history of responsible credit management, the more favorably they may view your request for a goodwill adjustment.

Preparing Your Communication

Effective communication is important when requesting a goodwill adjustment. Begin by gathering all specific account details related to the late payment, including your account number, the exact due date of the missed payment, the actual date the payment was made, and the amount paid. This information will streamline the conversation. Clearly identify the specific reason for the late payment; provide a brief, factual explanation without offering lengthy excuses.

Highlight your positive payment history and loyalty as a customer, noting your consistent record of on-time payments. Emphasize that the late payment was an isolated incident that does not reflect your typical financial behavior. If you paid a late fee, mention that you have already addressed it. Clearly state your desired outcome: removal of the late payment from your credit report. Maintain a polite, concise, and professional tone throughout your message, expressing appreciation for their consideration.

Submitting Your Request

Once your communication is prepared, you can choose the most suitable method for submission. Many opt for a phone call to the credit card company’s customer service or credit department for direct interaction and immediate clarification. When calling, have all your prepared information readily available and articulate your request politely and clearly. You may need to ask to speak with a supervisor or a representative specifically authorized to handle goodwill adjustments.

Alternatively, a written goodwill letter can be a formal way to submit your request. Ensure the letter follows a professional structure, includes all pertinent details, and is sent to the appropriate address, which may be a general customer service address or a specific department if known. Always keep a copy of the letter for your records. Some credit card companies also offer secure messaging systems or portals on their websites, providing another convenient avenue to submit your detailed request electronically.

After Your Request

After submitting your request, patience is important as credit card companies process these inquiries. Response times can vary, but generally, you might hear back within a few weeks. Following up politely if you do not receive a response within a reasonable timeframe is acceptable.

Once you receive a decision, check your credit reports to verify if the late payment has been removed. Review your reports from all three major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—as updates may not occur simultaneously. If your request is initially denied, you may consider politely asking for reconsideration, especially if you have new information or a different angle to present. Regardless of the outcome, maintaining consistent on-time payments is the most effective way to improve your credit health.