What to do if your credit report contains negative information but it’s for someone who has the same name?
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What to do if your credit report contains negative information but it’s for someone who has the same name?
I live with my parents due to my mom’s advanced age; I have stayed to help. I recently ordered my credit report and I have noticed that our condo association has reported a judgement that they have against my father. We both have the same name. How should I proceed with this situation?
Asked on February 10, 2011 under Bankruptcy Law, Virginia
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
You have a right to submit corrections to the credit-reporting agencies, so that's what you should do. You should gather evidence first, before doing so; for example, you should get a copy of the judgment to show that it's not you; possibly get a certification or affidavit from both someone on the condo association and from your father that it's him, not you; maybe collect some of the underlying bills, etc. that resulted in the judgment in the first place, particularly if they help identify which of you it is; etc. The goal is to approach the credit rating/reporting agencies in a professional and well-supported way, to show them that there was an error and ask them to correct it. If you can provide good evidence, they should be willing to do this.
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