Expert: Ray A Miller - 11/5/2008

Question
I currently have on my report a credit card that was charged off and I will soon be filing bankruptcy to exonerate this debt, as well as a few other debts I have.  The problem is that at one time, my husband was an authorized user on the account but not a co-signer.  In fact, we both use to use the card for personal uses.  However, in 2003, I called Chase and told them to take my husband off the card. I then began using this card for business purposes only, and I nor my husband never again used the card for personal use.  I since have let the card become deliquent (my business ventured failed), but Chase reported the charge-off on my husband's credit report instead of just mine!  How do we get the charge-off removed from my husband's credit report(s)?  Also, can we sue Chase for fraudulent reporting?  Just so you know, the credit card statements are in my name only.
thanks so much for your advice/answer!

Answer
Beverly,

The first thing your husband wants to do is dispute this item with the credit reporting agencies.  Here are there web sites:

Experian: http://www.experian.com/disputes/
Equifax: http://www.equifax.com/cs/Satellite/EFX_Content_C1/1162298957492/5-1/5-1_Layout....
Transunion: http://www.transunion.com/corporate/aboutUs/contactUs.page

You will need to contact Chase and ask them to check your records and prove to them that this listing on your credit bureau needs to be removed.  As far as suing Chase, that would be a costly endeavor that only an attorney could advise you on.  Be sure to keep a record of calls and letter sent to the credit bureaus and Chase.

Have a great weekend.