Expert: Ray A Miller - 10/30/2010

Question
QUESTION: I was surprised back in July of 2010 when I found a negative report on my credit. I pride myself on having excellent credit (700-800)and never any problems-- till now. I found that an account was opened for a Home Depot/ citibank credit card back in October of 2009. Needless to say it went to collects, etc. There was a $71 charge that now is at $305. I immediately tried to clear this diligently. Citibank has failed to produce back statements and a copy of the application filled out to obtain this account after 3 requests nearly a month apart each. I found out though all the sources that the mailing address was wrong and that their statements were repeatedly returned. How do I get them to comply so I can validate? Also, if this account happens to be mine (I'm not ruling out the possibility# and there is proof that billing has not come to my attention in any manner #i.e.phone call) do I have a leg to stand on? Citibank fails to mail me the application that they used to attempt to contact me with. How do I get any negative remarks off my credit report? My impression is that this matter is not their problem anymore any they now could care less about my dilemma.

ANSWER: Dispute the debt and ask for validation again. Copy the letters to the credit bureau, the attorney general and the BBB.  Citibank will have to respond within 30 days or you can ask the credit bureau to remove the item from your report.

If it is your debt, make an agreement with Citi to have it removed from your credit history if you pay the debt.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you for your quick response! Assuming the debt is mine, should I dispute the $235 extra charges since Citibank/Home Depot did not contact me by other means? I had no knowledge of any of the bills that were sent to me but returned. This is also why I want an original copy of the application to see the information they used and to verify it as mine.
Thank you

Answer
You should dispute it but be aware, it becomes he said she said and you may end up paying it.  I hope this works out good for you.

You should dispute it but be aware, it becomes he said she said and you may end up paying it.  I hope this works out good for you.