Bad Credit Agency

What is the best way to remove collection agency error from credit report?

I received a notice from a collection agency from an account that I have never had. My first name is even spelled wrong. It has appeared on my credit report (I've only checked TransUnion so far). Should I first try to dispute the error directly with the credit reporting agencies or send a letter to the collection agency (if so, what is a good template for the letter). Also, it has been over a year since it was placed for collection (i thought the notices were junk mail since my name was misspelled). Is this an issue? Thanks.

Public Comments

1. PA HA...... HA HA HA.... good luck
2. Dispute it with the credit bureau, they'll handle the rest.
3. you should check into a dispute with the trans union credit place and the collection agency, just to make sure, your credit is your most prized possession.
4. Hack into their computer and erase all of their files. I'm kidding.
5. This is an issue you should deal with directly. Call the agency and ask for a manager, don't settle for any one else. Explain the problem in it's entirety. Then gently ask them if they can take care of it, because you are worried you will have to get a lawyer, and that you would prefer not to waste your time in court :) You will be amazed how quick they jump if you stay calm and polite, but to the point. Good luck to you!
6. Try checking out this site......it has a sample letter that you can use to dispute a collection on your credit report. I would start with disputing with the credit reporting agencies, if it's already on your credit report. If you get letters from the collector themselves in the mail, before the 30 day period is up, send them a dispute letter to keep them from posting it on your credit report. Just google and look for "response to collection agency" and find a letter that fits your needs. http://credit.about.com/od/creditreportscoring/a/sampledispute.htm Good luck!
7. If it's on the credit report take that route first. If you have to call the collect agency, do not correct the spelling of your name or give your social security #.If it's a toll free #, call from a pay phone because if you call from your home, i'm sure that they have caller id. Tell them you'll hold or you'll call back.