Another look at Goodwill and PFD arrangements

[tlincoln77]

WOW! That was a lot of great information and very helpful.

 

Thanks...

[gary4872]

Stryker asked me to add my Citibank Student Loan goodwill success story to this thread – I hope that the information can help others who may be in a similar situation.

 

I have a private student loan with Citibank. Last year I encountered a brief financial hardship that had several factors. I *really* did not want any lates on my credit report. I tried to work with Citibank – I took their phone calls, I told them when I had payments setup via the web or setup debits on the phone with the reps. I was making bi-weekly payments (every paycheck) and was under the impression that I wouldn’t get any lates on my CRs. My impression would turn out to be wrong.

 

Checking my reports a couple months back, I had 3x 30 day lates reporting to TU and EX from that time last year. They were killing my scores and certainly wouldn’t help with the refinance I’m going for this fall. I called CS and was told that some of the payments were late because they weren’t paid in full until the 31st day, etc. Each time it really was just within a couple of days that made it right over 30. I decided I had no choice but to try and GW Citibank hardcore.

 

I sent my first GW in via fax to the “credit bureau dispute dept.†This mystical department is not reachable by any other means (except I suppose snail mail) – there are no phone numbers, you will not be transferred, you will not be given any names. My first GW was denied and I was notified via mail. In the meantime I called CS several times to make sure they received my fax, see if there were any questions, etc. Every time I was courteous and had a pleasant conversation with the CS reps, all of whom were as helpful as they could be.

 

After I received the denial I called and asked why. They asked for me to re-send it along with a copy of my credit report. I then updated my letter and re-sent it with the TC page showing the Citi loan (there was no reason for them to get my entire report and the fax would be too long.) A bit over a week later I called to check the status and “They received the letter but not the credit report.†Grrrr – had to resend the fax. This time I again went into more extensive detail about the situation in my letter.

 

Time went on and I didn’t hear anything so I got a little impatient and decided to bring it up a level. I remembered reading of successes people have had with finding someone in the company and working with them. I started my research and in an hour or so found the name of a PR person at Citibank. This past Friday I sent an email off to a few variants of what I thought the email address would be. My email was short, explaining that I had tried to work through my situation with CS and the “credit bureau dispute†team but felt I was receiving standard responses and that my situation wasn’t really looked at. I included the “meat†of my last letter to the credit bureau dispute team too. I included no personal information in my email except my name.

 

I then figured it would be some time before anything happened – if anything was to happen and headed out to a lunch meeting. My phone rang when I was at the meeting with an “Unknown number†which I normally don’t answer anyway – but especially since I was with my boss During a brief intermission I checked the voicemail that had been left and it was someone calling me from the “office of the president†at Citibank. Wow was I surprised at how fast they called and that they tracked me down without the personal info! Unfortunately, it was a Friday afternoon and the person that called me had already left for the day when I received the message.

 

When I went back to the office I saw that shortly after I sent the email out I received a response from the person that my request for assistance had been forwarded to the executive services team. I sent an email response thanking for assistance. I also then called the executive services number the rep had left on my vm and left a message. Now I had to wait all weekend hoping and praying that they would help me…talk about anxiety. I hadn’t planned to go all the way up to that level and realized that if they said no my chances were pretty shot.

 

First thing Monday morning I called back and it just happened that they were calling me at the exact time ïŠ I was informed that my case was reviewed and that the late payments were being removed from my credit reports! They would update in a couple of days and if I didn’t see it updated in a week, or if I had any other concerns, to call back. The person I spoke to was exceptionally nice and helpful. I thanked the rep profusely. Hey, when someone does something nice that really helps me, I think it important to let them know how grateful I am.

 

Come Wednesday, I check TC and see that the lates are gone. I pulled my TU FICO and it was up 65 points.

 

I am exceptionally grateful for the guidance I learned from these boards, without which I wouldn’t have made the progress I have in so short a time.

 

So to those that are considering using this method – it can work. In my case, of course, it was a GW request and not a dispute or wrong information. I was truthful in all of my conversations and correspondence and of course, very polite. If you are considering this route, please don’t abuse it - try CS first, tell the truth, try to work it through. I’d hate to see this route get shut down for others by those that would try to exploit it. The end result was very lucky for me and I hope that others can have success too.

[powers64]

Congrats Gary!

 

Nice to see such a great bump on your score too! I think it also underscores one of the key elements to a strong goodwill request: sincerity. If the person on the other end of the phone/email can tell that you are being genuine and upfront, they are more likely to take you sincerely.

[Mommy]

Stryker

 

 

Next time you make a nice thread like this put F/R in the title so it will get a gazillion replies with a quickness.

 

 

 

Yes congrats Gary.

[Stryker]

Stryker

 

 

Next time you make a nice thread like this put F/R in the title so it will get a gazillion replies with a quickness.

 

 

 

Yes congrats Gary.

 

LOL!

[Carrie2008]

I probably don't have a chance in hell at GW for this case, but I'm going to give it a try anyway. I was wondering if you might have any advice for this one ~ I have 30 days lates for an auto loan through Road Loans (Triad). They're from this year and last year. With this car my brother-in-law took it over and took over the payments (HUGE mistake). Anyway, I want to at least try to get these off my CR. Just trying to figure out what in the world I could say that *might* give me a better chance. We haven't been able to afford to make this payment because we already have 2 car payments, but we've recently cut back on a lot of non-necessities to free up some money so that it won't be late anymore.

 

I'm in the process of finding some contacts for them.

[Stryker]

I probably don't have a chance in hell at GW for this case, but I'm going to give it a try anyway. I was wondering if you might have any advice for this one ~ I have 30 days lates for an auto loan through Road Loans (Triad). They're from this year and last year. With this car my brother-in-law took it over and took over the payments (HUGE mistake). Anyway, I want to at least try to get these off my CR. Just trying to figure out what in the world I could say that *might* give me a better chance. We haven't been able to afford to make this payment because we already have 2 car payments, but we've recently cut back on a lot of non-necessities to free up some money so that it won't be late anymore.

 

I'm in the process of finding some contacts for them.

 

Bingo. Research the company thoroughly.

 

Is the loan current now? It is almost imperative that you have post-derogatory positive information.

[05TunedbBX]

PFB: Planet Feedback.

 

Planet feedback is a potent mode of attack, particularly if you have a claim to being wronged. Keep in mind that for a lot of companies, it goes directly to the Executive Department; therefore, if you are asking for goodwill on your mistakes, I'd think twice.

 

I sent out prob 4 GW requests using PFB and 1 complaint (to Pizza Hut) and have not heard anything back except from Capital One with a generic "We dont handle personal info over the web"

 

How long should I wait to hear a response.

PS I am trying to do this method for HSBC, Cap1 and Toyota Financial Services.

[yellorose]

powers that drawing of the dog is lovely.

 

stryker, how long is too long to wait for a promised delete? VP of credit took over a week to process my payment, but I'm still waiting for the delete. 2 weeks? not sure what to do next.

 

thx

[Stryker]

powers that drawing of the dog is lovely.

 

stryker, how long is too long to wait for a promised delete? VP of credit took over a week to process my payment, but I'm still waiting for the delete. 2 weeks? not sure what to do next.

 

thx

 

Depending on need, IMHO, 60 days is not unreasonable... two complete billing cycles. After that, a gentle reminder is in order.

[gdtobefree]

THANKS you have just given my the POWER, I have been dealing with Arrow and Asset and not getting anywhere with them, I REFUSE to pay these salamanders and am going to get the OC to take it back from them and work with the OC. THANKS !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[yellorose]

ok, I will sit on my hands for 60 days!!! lol

 

I dont want to do any thank you emails until I actually get the delete. so I'll wait for VP of Credit to do his thing, then do my emails.

 

unless you think otherwise? thanx

[Stryker]

ok, I will sit on my hands for 60 days!!! lol

 

I dont want to do any thank you emails until I actually get the delete. so I'll wait for VP of Credit to do his thing, then do my emails.

 

unless you think otherwise? thanx

 

You could send a thank you email... it could serve as a reminder.

[Stryker]

PFB: Planet Feedback.

 

Planet feedback is a potent mode of attack, particularly if you have a claim to being wronged. Keep in mind that for a lot of companies, it goes directly to the Executive Department; therefore, if you are asking for goodwill on your mistakes, I'd think twice.

 

I sent out prob 4 GW requests using PFB and 1 complaint (to Pizza Hut) and have not heard anything back except from Capital One with a generic "We dont handle personal info over the web"

 

How long should I wait to hear a response.

PS I am trying to do this method for HSBC, Cap1 and Toyota Financial Services.

 

Crap 1 is difficult any method. period. Some companies don't respond at all.

 

PFB is an option, but it is somewhat impersonal.

[powers64]

powers that drawing of the dog is lovely.

 

thanks! mariareyesjones.com I have no affiliation with her...i just have one of her dogs hangin' on my wall

Edited June 15, 2008 by powers64

[Carrie2008]

Another success! I sent DV to CA, and they responded with validation. Then I sent them a PFD letter, and they said NO WAY. So, I contacted OC and told them I just found the notation on my CR that I owed them $115 that I wasn't previously aware of. Told them I wanted to pay them in full and settle the account. I didn't mention the CA at all. They said OK. So, I'm going to pay the OC.

 

What should be my next step after I pay the OC to get this tradeline off my reports? Can the CA keep it on and mark it as paid even though I didn't pay them?

Edited June 16, 2008 by Carrie2008

[Stryker]

Another success! I sent DV to CA, and they responded with validation. Then I sent them a PFD letter, and they said NO WAY. So, I contacted OC and told them I just found the notation on my CR that I owed them $115 that I wasn't previously aware of. Told them I wanted to pay them in full and settle the account. I didn't mention the CA at all. They said OK. So, I'm going to pay the OC.

 

What should be my next step after I pay the OC to get this tradeline off my reports? Can the CA keep it on and mark it as paid even though I didn't pay them?

 

 

You had better make sure that they are going to recall the debt first, or you'll end up with a paid collection!

[theshoediva]

Subscribing....

 

Nothing like a good "carpet bomb" email to every executive contact you can get your finger's on!!!!!

 

Now, I wouldn't actually encourage mass emailing simultaneously. That could make you look crazy, and if it is known to all execs that one said no, they all will likely concur.

I CONCUR! That strategy can likely set the wheels in motion THE OPPOSITE way you wanna the outcome to go. I highly advise against mass mailings!

[theshoediva]

PFB: Planet Feedback.

 

Planet feedback is a potent mode of attack, particularly if you have a claim to being wronged. Keep in mind that for a lot of companies, it goes directly to the Executive Department; therefore, if you are asking for goodwill on your mistakes, I'd think twice.

 

I sent out prob 4 GW requests using PFB and 1 complaint (to Pizza Hut) and have not heard anything back except from Capital One with a generic "We dont handle personal info over the web"

 

How long should I wait to hear a response.

PS I am trying to do this method for HSBC, Cap1 and Toyota Financial Services.

 

Crap 1 is difficult any method. period. Some companies don't respond at all.

 

PFB is an option, but it is somewhat impersonal.

For me, Cap1 folded (mind you it was a 30 day late) with just one letter. I sent it to their corporate offices in a very large envelope, one that didn't require I fold my letter. They sent me a follow-up letter obliging my request. They were THE FIRST to respond to my GW requests when I sent them out and its for that reason that they're the only subprime, low CL card I'm keeping open. I'm holding onto my relationship with them.

[Carrie2008]

Another success! I sent DV to CA, and they responded with validation. Then I sent them a PFD letter, and they said NO WAY. So, I contacted OC and told them I just found the notation on my CR that I owed them $115 that I wasn't previously aware of. Told them I wanted to pay them in full and settle the account. I didn't mention the CA at all. They said OK. So, I'm going to pay the OC.

 

What should be my next step after I pay the OC to get this tradeline off my reports? Can the CA keep it on and mark it as paid even though I didn't pay them?

 

 

You had better make sure that they are going to recall the debt first, or you'll end up with a paid collection!

 

I haven't paid it yet. Just got the e-mail this morning that they would take payment. What is the best way to approach them about recalling it? Thanks!

[Stryker]

Another success! I sent DV to CA, and they responded with validation. Then I sent them a PFD letter, and they said NO WAY. So, I contacted OC and told them I just found the notation on my CR that I owed them $115 that I wasn't previously aware of. Told them I wanted to pay them in full and settle the account. I didn't mention the CA at all. They said OK. So, I'm going to pay the OC.

 

What should be my next step after I pay the OC to get this tradeline off my reports? Can the CA keep it on and mark it as paid even though I didn't pay them?

 

 

You had better make sure that they are going to recall the debt first, or you'll end up with a paid collection!

 

I haven't paid it yet. Just got the e-mail this morning that they would take payment. What is the best way to approach them about recalling it? Thanks!

 

I would be direct and straightforward. First off, how did you make contact? Who agreed to take the payment?

[Stryker]

PFB: Planet Feedback.

 

Planet feedback is a potent mode of attack, particularly if you have a claim to being wronged. Keep in mind that for a lot of companies, it goes directly to the Executive Department; therefore, if you are asking for goodwill on your mistakes, I'd think twice.

 

I sent out prob 4 GW requests using PFB and 1 complaint (to Pizza Hut) and have not heard anything back except from Capital One with a generic "We dont handle personal info over the web"

 

How long should I wait to hear a response.

PS I am trying to do this method for HSBC, Cap1 and Toyota Financial Services.

 

Crap 1 is difficult any method. period. Some companies don't respond at all.

 

PFB is an option, but it is somewhat impersonal.

For me, Cap1 folded (mind you it was a 30 day late) with just one letter. I sent it to their corporate offices in a very large envelope, one that didn't require I fold my letter. They sent me a follow-up letter obliging my request. They were THE FIRST to respond to my GW requests when I sent them out and its for that reason that they're the only subprime, low CL card I'm keeping open. I'm holding onto my relationship with them.

 

Definitely a method worth trying. Cap One is a tough cookie. Congratulations.

[Carrie2008]

Another success! I sent DV to CA, and they responded with validation. Then I sent them a PFD letter, and they said NO WAY. So, I contacted OC and told them I just found the notation on my CR that I owed them $115 that I wasn't previously aware of. Told them I wanted to pay them in full and settle the account. I didn't mention the CA at all. They said OK. So, I'm going to pay the OC.

 

What should be my next step after I pay the OC to get this tradeline off my reports? Can the CA keep it on and mark it as paid even though I didn't pay them?

 

 

You had better make sure that they are going to recall the debt first, or you'll end up with a paid collection!

 

I haven't paid it yet. Just got the e-mail this morning that they would take payment. What is the best way to approach them about recalling it? Thanks!

 

I would be direct and straightforward. First off, how did you make contact? Who agreed to take the payment?

 

I e-mailed the manager of the utility office, and the person who responded to my e-mail is the utility office supervisor. She is the one who agreed to take the payment and was able to find the account.

[05TunedbBX]

PFB: Planet Feedback.

 

Planet feedback is a potent mode of attack, particularly if you have a claim to being wronged. Keep in mind that for a lot of companies, it goes directly to the Executive Department; therefore, if you are asking for goodwill on your mistakes, I'd think twice.

 

I sent out prob 4 GW requests using PFB and 1 complaint (to Pizza Hut) and have not heard anything back except from Capital One with a generic "We dont handle personal info over the web"

 

How long should I wait to hear a response.

PS I am trying to do this method for HSBC, Cap1 and Toyota Financial Services.

 

Crap 1 is difficult any method. period. Some companies don't respond at all.

 

PFB is an option, but it is somewhat impersonal.

For me, Cap1 folded (mind you it was a 30 day late) with just one letter. I sent it to their corporate offices in a very large envelope, one that didn't require I fold my letter. They sent me a follow-up letter obliging my request. They were THE FIRST to respond to my GW requests when I sent them out and its for that reason that they're the only subprime, low CL card I'm keeping open. I'm holding onto my relationship with them.

 

 

When you sent out the letter, what department did you address it to? When I called Cap 1, they put in a dispute. Didn't realize that that was what they did til it showed on my credit report. I have 2 30 days from like 4 and 5 years ago. Not hurting, just want them gone.

[Stryker]

Another success! I sent DV to CA, and they responded with validation. Then I sent them a PFD letter, and they said NO WAY. So, I contacted OC and told them I just found the notation on my CR that I owed them $115 that I wasn't previously aware of. Told them I wanted to pay them in full and settle the account. I didn't mention the CA at all. They said OK. So, I'm going to pay the OC.

 

What should be my next step after I pay the OC to get this tradeline off my reports? Can the CA keep it on and mark it as paid even though I didn't pay them?

 

 

You had better make sure that they are going to recall the debt first, or you'll end up with a paid collection!

 

I haven't paid it yet. Just got the e-mail this morning that they would take payment. What is the best way to approach them about recalling it? Thanks!

 

I would be direct and straightforward. First off, how did you make contact? Who agreed to take the payment?

 

I e-mailed the manager of the utility office, and the person who responded to my e-mail is the utility office supervisor. She is the one who agreed to take the payment and was able to find the account.

 

Awesome... simply ask that now that the misunderstanding is corrected, could she please ensure that the CA deletes the account, or better yet, they recall it?