Document background
The Hard Inquiry Removal Letter is a crucial document for maintaining accurate credit reports and protecting consumer rights in the United States. It is used when an individual discovers unauthorized or incorrect hard inquiries on their credit report, which can negatively impact their credit score. Each hard inquiry can lower a credit score by several points and remain on the report for up to two years. This document is particularly important as it formally initiates the dispute process required by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), requiring credit reporting agencies to investigate and respond within 30 days. The letter should be used when consumers notice inquiries they didn't authorize, potential identity theft, or duplicate inquiries for the same credit application. It must include specific details about the disputed inquiry, personal identification information, and any supporting evidence to facilitate the investigation process.
