Looking for a 609 letter template? In our previous post, we talked about how we can use 609 letters to your advantage. Today, I want to share with you how to write those letters by giving out a sample template.

How do I write a 609 letter?

Learn how to structure your arguments, include supporting evidence, and craft a compelling request for correction.

Essential Elements of a 609 Dispute Letter Template

A well-crafted 609 letter, based on the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), empowers you to challenge inaccuracies on your credit report. Here's a breakdown of the key elements in a 609 dispute letter template.

1. Introduction (Optional)

This section is not strictly necessary but can be helpful for setting the context. Briefly explain why you're writing and reference the FCRA.

Example: I am writing to dispute inaccurate information on my credit report, in accordance with my rights under Section 609 of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).

2. Identifying Information

• Your Name: Include your full legal name as it appears on your credit report.
• Contact Information: Provide your phone number and email address (optional) for easier communication from the credit bureau.
• Date: Include the current date when sending your letter.

3. Addressing the Inaccuracy

Account Information: Specify the account you're disputing (e.g., credit card, loan) and its account number (if applicable).

4. Dispute Details

This is the heart of your letter. Here, you clearly and concisely explain the error on your credit report:

**Identify the specific error:** Be precise.

For example, state "This account reflects a late payment in [month, year], but my records show a timely payment on [date]."

**Explain why it's wrong:** Briefly explain why you believe the information is inaccurate. 

Examples below:

• This account reflects a late payment. However, I have consistently made my payments on time. (Attach copies of bank statements as verification.)
• The report shows the account in collections, despite being paid in full. (Attach a copy of the written confirmation from the creditor stating the account is paid.)
• This account does not belong to me. I believe this may be a case of identity theft. (Attach any documentation supporting your claim.)

**Supporting Evidence (Optional):**  Mention if you're attaching documents to support your claim (e.g., bank statements, receipts, written communication from the creditor).

Example: I am disputing the late payment listed for my ABC Department Store Credit Card (Account number: 1234567890) on my credit report. My bank statements for [month, year] clearly show a payment made on [date], which was well within the grace period.

5. Request for Investigation and Correction

Investigation: Politely request a thorough investigation into the disputed information. Emphasize your belief that the information is inaccurate and should be removed.
Correction: Clearly state your desired outcome. Options might include:

• Removing the late payment notation.
• Marking the account as "paid in full" if applicable.
• Deleting the entire account if it doesn't belong to you.

Example: I kindly request a thorough investigation into this dispute. I believe the late payment notation for my ABC Department Store Credit Card is inaccurate and should be removed from my credit report.

6. Closing

Thank you: Express your appreciation for their time and attention to the matter.
Resolution: Mention your anticipation for a swift resolution to the dispute.

Example: Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. I look forward to your response and a swift resolution to this dispute.

7. Signature

Include your signature and printed name for a professional touch.

Important Reminders

Personalize: Adapt the template to reflect your specific error and situation.
Supporting Documents: Attach copies of any relevant documentation that strengthens your case.
Record Keeping: Keep a copy of the entire letter and its attachments for your records.

By incorporating these elements into your 609 dispute letter, you can effectively communicate the error and urge the credit bureau to investigate and correct the information on your credit report.

You might be interested in: How to Use a Pay for Delete Letter to Improve Your Credit Score: A Step-by-Step Guide

609 Letter Template

Here's a sample 609 letter template:

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]


[Credit Bureau Name]
[Credit Bureau Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]

Subject: Credit Report Dispute - Request for Investigation and Correction of Inaccurate Information

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to formally dispute inaccurate information present on my credit report, as permitted by Section 609 of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). Please find the details of the disputed information below:

Account Information
Name of Account: [Name of the account, e.g., "ABC Department Store Credit Card"]
Account Number: [Account Number] (if applicable)

Description of Error
The inaccuracies I am disputing are as follows:
[Describe each inaccuracy concisely and clearly]

Supporting Evidence
Attached to this letter, you will find copies of supporting documents substantiating my claims, including:
[List any documents or evidence provided.]

 Request for Investigation and Correction
I request that you conduct a thorough investigation into the disputed information and take appropriate action to rectify the inaccuracies. Specifically, I request that you:
[State the desired action, such as removal of the erroneous information, correction of inaccuracies, etc.]

Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. I look forward to receiving confirmation of the commencement of the investigation and the resolution of this dispute. Please provide a written response within the timeframe stipulated by law.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Enclosures: [List any documents or evidence attached, including your identity verification]

Example Model 609 Letter Template

(Disclaimer: this is for sample purposes only, all information aren’t from a real person)

John Smith
123 Main Street
Anytown, USA 12345
john.smith@email.com
May, 13 2024


Equifax Information Services, LLC
P.O. Box 740256
Atlanta, GA 30374-0256

Subject: Credit Report Dispute - Request for Investigation and Correction of Inaccurate Information


Dear Sir/Madam,

My name is John Smith. I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to formally dispute inaccurate information present on my credit report, as permitted by Section 609 of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). Please find the details of the disputed information below:

Name of Account: Credit One Credit Card
Account Number: 123456789

The inaccuracy I am disputing is that the report indicates a late payment for the month of June 2023. However, I have never missed a payment on this account, and I have documentation to support this.

Attached to this letter, you will find copies of supporting documents substantiating my claims, including: Bank statements showing consistent on-time payments for the Credit One Credit Card account. You will also find a copy of my SSN number and the attached idenitification document.

I request that you conduct a thorough investigation into the disputed information and take appropriate action to rectify the inaccuracies. Specifically, I request that you Remove the notation of the late payment for June 2023 from my credit report.

Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. I look forward to receiving confirmation of the commencement of the investigation and the resolution of this dispute. Please provide a written response within the timeframe stipulated by law.

Sincerely,
John Smith
Enclosures: Bank statements, Proof of Idenitification

FAQ - Conquering Credit Report Errors with 609 Letters

Q: What is the difference between a 609 and 604 dispute letter?

Both 609 and 604 letters allow you to challenge errors on your credit report under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). However, they differ in function:

• 609 Letter: This letter is used to dispute inaccurate information already present on your credit report. You'd use a 609 letter to challenge a late payment, a wrong account balance, or even an account that doesn't belong to you (potential identity theft).
• 604 Letter: This letter is used to request that additional information be included in your credit report. You might use a 604 letter to explain extenuating circumstances for a late payment or add a statement regarding a resolved debt.

Q: Do 609 letters really work?

Yes, 609 letters can be effective in removing errors from your credit report. The success rate depends on the clarity and accuracy of your dispute, as well as the completeness of any supporting documentation you provide.

Here are some tips to increase the effectiveness of your 609 letter:

• Be specific and clear about the error you're disputing.
• Explain why you believe the information is wrong.
• Include copies of supporting documents (bank statements, receipts, creditor communication).
• Remain polite and professional in your tone.

Q: What if the credit bureau doesn't agree with my dispute?

If the credit bureau doesn't resolve the dispute in your favor, you have the right to request a reconsideration. You can also submit a statement of disagreement that will be included in your credit report. In some cases, you may need to consider seeking legal assistance.

Additional Resources:

• Annual Credit Report: https://www.annualcreditreport.com/index.action
• Federal Trade Commission (FTC) - Consumer Information on Credit Reports: https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/topics/consumer-finance/credit-reporting

We hope that this blog post has shared some valuable resources about crafting a 609 dispute letter. If you need to write your own, feel free to use our template and share your experience in the comment section below.