For older collections and late payments, one of the most successful ways to get an item removed from your credit report is to simply ask the original creditor or collection agency to do so.

Note: Goodwill letters are meant to be personal and reflect your individual situation.

Sample Goodwill Letter / Forgiveness Removal Letter

Instructions

  1. Fill in all fields highlighted with your information
  2. Edit this letter liberally to reflect your personal tone, voice, and situation
  3. Remove highlighting
  4. Copy-paste your completed letter into a new document
  5. Print and sign

[Today’s Date]

[Name of credit reporting agency
Credit reporting agency address
Credit reporting agency City, State, ZIP]

Dear [Name of credit reporting agency]

Dear Sir or Madam

This letter is in reference to a paid collection with the account number [account number].

In [year] a collection for the amount of [amount] was sent to your agency due to [provide personal information and details]. While I normally make every effort to pay my debts and fulfill my responsibilities, in this instance I was unfortunately unable to do so. I have since gotten back on my feet and paid this debt to your agency.

I am writing today because I am now trying to [insert reason, examples: “buy a house,” “establish a credit card,” “access an auto loan,” etc.)] I am having difficulties [repeat example and further clarify] due to having a collection on my account. Given the date and amount of this collection, I am kindly requesting your agency consider removing this collection from my credit report as a gesture of goodwill. Doing so would sincerely be appreciated and represent an invaluable gift to my family and me.

Thank you so much,

[Your Name
Your Address
Your City, STATE ZIP]

If you’re the type of person who would rather have a professional handle it and just be done with the whole thing, I suggest you check out Credit Saint. They’ll take care of you.

Disclaimer: These letters are provided for your information only and are not intended to be legal advice. You are responsible for all content and all consequences if you adapt these template letters for your personal use. As with all legal matters, if you have concerns about the potential legal consequences of sending a goodwill letter, you should consult with a licensed attorney.