How Can I Remove Medical Collections from My Credit Report?
Learning how to remove medical collections from your credit report can help improve your credit score. Maybe you’re looking for ways to make a positive impact regarding your buying power. You know it’s time. But where do you even begin? You have likely already seen the damage these collections can do to your credit. Keep reading to understand how the removal process works.
How Medical Bills Become “Collections”
So, how did your medical bills become medical collections? After anywhere from 90-180 days of non-payment on a medical debt, your negative account is considered a loss. The hospital, clinic, doctor’s office, etc. actually sells your debt to a collection agency. All of this results in a collections account, and it negatively reports on your credit.
You can imagine: when it comes to making purchases on credit, payment history is a huge factor. But working with the credit bureaus to correct any inaccurate information can certainly help.
Medical Collections Removal Process
Check for Errors
It can be a time-consuming step, but it’s the necessary launching pad. Gather any and all information you have on the specific medical item. Have a look at the details on the original bill and on the collections account. Check for mistakes. Keep in mind that creditors may be in violation of the FDCPA (Fair Debt Collection Practices Act).
Request Proof of the Collections
This is your legal right. Ask your collector for proof of this debt. The FDCPA says you should have this particular information (in writing) in five days or less of the request: you should be sent the total debt amount and the official name of the creditor. If the debt cannot be validated, then it’s time to take action.
Dispute and Remove Inaccurate Items
If you determine medical collections are inaccurate, then you’ll need to file disputes with the credit agencies. You can do this online, and you need to file with every credit bureau. Each has their own process for filing. Copies of documents and records may be required.
Verify the Age of Accurate Medical Collections
You’ll need to determine when your medical collections account is due to disappear from your credit report. This will let you know if you’re still under any legal liability. Be aware of the statute of limitations, which differs from state to state. Collection agencies are only able to sue you and collect on the debt for a set number of years.
Make Payment Decisions
If your collections account is accurate, you’ll have to make a decision. Paying off your debt will normally result in better relationships with lenders. If you cannot pay the debt, you might negotiate a settlement. Be aware this can lead to more consequences concerning your tax liability and credit, however.
How Long Do Medical Collections Remain on a Credit Report?
If all medical collections information reporting is accurate, then the negative accounts can remain on your report for up to seven years. Typically, the negative impact on your credit score diminishes over time. Eventually, it disappears or is removed.
Need Help Sooner Rather Than Later?
You may have a problem when it comes to major purchases like home or auto. Are you at a standstill? Do you have the time credit repair demands? Perhaps you have a time-sensitive opportunity before you. Where can you turn if you need to expedite the tedious process?
Reach out to White, Jacobs & Associates. Our clients typically begin to see results in as few as 30-45 days. We take an aggressive, attorney-backed approach. We’re not a traditional dispute service. We audit creditors in a 4-round system that has been proven time and again. Our experienced credit analysts and investigative research team are powerful. We love what we do, and we’d love to talk to you today.