How to Remove Unauthorized Inquiries from Your Credit Report: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

Your credit score is a crucial factor in your financial health. Unfortunately, unauthorized inquiries can drag it down, costing you valuable points. These inquiries, often the result of identity theft or other fraudulent activities, can stay on your credit report for years if left unchecked. But the good news is that you can remove them—and it’s easier than you might think. In this blog, we'll walk you through the process step-by-step.

Step 1: Understand Which Inquiries You Can Remove

Before you start, it's important to know which inquiries you can legally remove from your credit report. There are two key criteria:

1. Unauthorized Inquiries: If you didn’t authorize the inquiry, it’s fraudulent, and you have the right to have it removed.
   

2. Inquiries Not Linked to an Open Account: Even if you authorized an inquiry, if it’s not linked to an account that was opened as a result, you might be able to have it removed.
   

3. Important Note: Do not attempt to remove inquiries that you genuinely authorized and that are connected to an open account. This can backfire and potentially harm your credit further.

Step 2: File an Identity Theft Affidavit with the FTC

Since you’re dealing with unauthorized inquiries, the first step is to file an Identity Theft Affidavit with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). This affidavit will serve as official documentation that your identity has been compromised.

1. Visit FTC.gov.
   

2. Navigate to the Identity Theft section.
   

3. Fill out the Identity Theft Affidavit form with your personal information and details about the unauthorized inquiries.

Step 3: Write a Dispute Letter to the Credit Bureaus

Once you’ve filed your affidavit, the next step is to dispute the unauthorized inquiries with the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian. Here’s how to do it:

1. Draft Your Letter: In your letter, list each unauthorized inquiry and the date it was made. Clearly state that these inquiries were made without your consent and that you’re requesting their removal.
   

2. Include Your Documentation: Attach a copy of your Identity Theft Affidavit, along with any other relevant documentation that supports your claim (such as a police report if applicable).
   

3. Send to the Bureaus: Mail your dispute letter to the credit bureaus. Here are their addresses:
   

• Equifax: P.O. Box 740256, Atlanta, GA 30374-0256

• TransUnion: P.O. Box 2000, Chester, PA 19016-2000

• Experian: P.O. Box 4500, Allen, TX 75013
  

Step 4: Follow Up with the Credit Bureaus

After you’ve sent your letters, it’s crucial to follow up with the credit bureaus. Here’s how to do it:

1. Wait for Confirmation: The bureaus should send you a confirmation that they’ve received your dispute. This usually takes about a week.
   

2. Call the Fraud Department: Contact each bureau and ask specifically to speak to their fraud department. This is important because your case involves unauthorized inquiries, not a general dispute.
   

3. Provide Your Information: When speaking to the fraud department, reiterate the names and dates of the inquiries, and firmly request their removal.
   

What to Expect

• Experian: Typically, Experian is the fastest, often removing unauthorized inquiries within 24 hours of verification.
  

• Equifax and TransUnion: These bureaus may require more persistence. You might need to speak with multiple representatives and follow up more than once, but stay patient and persistent.

Conclusion

Removing unauthorized inquiries from your credit report is not only possible but also a vital step in protecting your credit score. By following these steps, you can ensure that your credit report accurately reflects your financial behavior and isn’t unfairly weighed down by fraudulent activity. Remember, persistence is key—stay on top of the process, and you’ll see those unauthorized inquiries disappear.

Need Help?

If you’re overwhelmed or unsure where to start, don’t hesitate to reach out. At CapitalQuest Funding, we specialize in credit repair services, including the removal of unauthorized inquiries. Book a consultation today, and let us help you take control of your credit.