Dispute letters are essential tools for resolving discrepancies and inaccuracies with businesses, credit bureaus, and other institutions. Whether you’re challenging a billing error, incorrect credit report information, or a contract violation, a well-written dispute letter can be instrumental in reaching a favorable resolution. This article provides you with 22 diverse dispute letter samples covering a variety of situations, empowering you to effectively communicate your concerns and protect your rights.
Crafting an effective dispute letter requires clarity, accuracy, and a professional tone. Each sample below is designed to be a starting point, which you can customize to reflect your specific circumstances. Remember to always include supporting documentation to strengthen your case and send your letter via certified mail to ensure proof of delivery. Let’s dive into the samples to find the perfect fit for your situation.
22 Dispute Letter Samples
Here are 22 dispute letter samples covering common situations. Remember to replace the bracketed information with your own details.
Sample 1: Credit Report Dispute (Inaccurate Information)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Date]
[Credit Bureau Name]
[Credit Bureau Address]
[Credit Bureau City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Dispute of Inaccurate Information on Credit Report
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to dispute the following inaccurate information on my credit report:
[Account Name and Number]
[Description of the inaccurate information]
This information is incorrect because [explain why the information is incorrect, e.g., “the account was paid in full on [date]”, “I am not the owner of this account”]. I have attached supporting documentation, including [list attached documents], to substantiate my claim.
I request that you investigate this matter and remove the inaccurate information from my credit report. Please provide me with written confirmation of the correction once it has been made.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 2: Billing Error Dispute (Overcharge)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Date]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[Company City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Dispute of Billing Error – Account Number: [Your Account Number]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to dispute a billing error on my account, number [Your Account Number]. I received a bill on [Date of Bill] for [Amount of Bill], which includes an overcharge of [Amount of Overcharge].
The overcharge is due to [Explain the reason for the overcharge, e.g., “incorrect usage charges”, “unauthorized service”]. I have attached copies of [Supporting Documents, e.g., previous bills, contract agreement] to support my claim.
I request that you investigate this matter and correct the billing error. I am requesting a corrected bill for the amount of [Correct Amount]. I will withhold payment of the disputed amount until this issue is resolved.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 3: Unauthorized Transaction Dispute
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Date]
[Bank/Credit Card Company Name]
[Bank/Credit Card Company Address]
[Bank/Credit Card Company City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Dispute of Unauthorized Transaction
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to dispute an unauthorized transaction on my account, account number [Your Account Number]. On [Date of Transaction], a transaction for [Amount of Transaction] was made at [Merchant Name].
I did not authorize this transaction, and I believe it is fraudulent. I have not shared my card information with anyone, nor have I lost my card.
I request that you investigate this fraudulent activity and credit my account for the disputed amount. I am also requesting a new credit card with a new account number to prevent future fraudulent charges.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 4: Debt Validation Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Date]
[Debt Collector Name]
[Debt Collector Address]
[Debt Collector City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Debt Validation Request – Account Number: [Account Number]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing in response to your letter dated [Date of Debt Collector’s Letter] regarding account number [Account Number]. This letter is a formal request for validation of this debt under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA).
I request that you provide me with the following information:
* The name of the original creditor.
* The account number with the original creditor.
* A copy of the original contract or agreement that created the debt.
* Documentation showing that you have the legal right to collect this debt.
I am not refusing to pay a legitimate debt, but I am exercising my right to verify the validity of this debt. Until you provide me with the requested documentation, I will not acknowledge the debt nor make any payments.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 5: Late Payment Dispute
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Date]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[Company City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Dispute of Late Payment Reporting
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to dispute a late payment reported on my credit report for account number [Your Account Number]. According to my records, my payment for the [Month] billing cycle was made on [Date of Payment].
This payment was made [Explain why the payment was not late, e.g., “before the due date”, “due to a processing error on your end”, “as agreed upon in a payment plan”]. I have attached a copy of [Proof of Payment, e.g., bank statement, cancelled check, online payment confirmation] as proof of timely payment.
I request that you investigate this matter and remove the late payment reporting from my credit report. This inaccurate information is negatively impacting my credit score.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 6: Incorrect Address on Credit Report
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Date]
[Credit Bureau Name]
[Credit Bureau Address]
[Credit Bureau City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Dispute of Incorrect Address Information on Credit Report
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to dispute the incorrect address listed on my credit report. The incorrect address is [Incorrect Address Listed]. My current and correct address is [Your Correct Address].
This incorrect address is not associated with me and should be removed. Having an accurate address on my credit report is crucial for accurate credit scoring and identity verification.
I request that you investigate this matter and remove the incorrect address from my credit report. Please confirm in writing when this correction has been made.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 7: Disputing a Medical Bill
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Date]
[Hospital/Doctor’s Office Name]
[Billing Department Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Dispute of Medical Bill – Account Number: [Account Number]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to dispute a medical bill I received on [Date of Bill], account number [Account Number], for the amount of [Amount of Bill]. This bill is for services rendered on [Date of Service].
I am disputing this bill because [State the reason for the dispute – be specific: e.g., “I was overcharged for a service”, “I was billed for a service I did not receive”, “My insurance should have covered this service”]. I have attached a copy of my insurance card and/or explanation of benefits (EOB) for your reference.
I request that you review this matter and adjust the bill accordingly. I am willing to pay the correct amount once the dispute is resolved. Please provide me with a revised bill reflecting the accurate charges.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 8: Identity Theft Affidavit
This sample is a placeholder. An Identity Theft Affidavit is a formal legal document with specific requirements, often provided by the FTC or the specific institution. It’s best to obtain the correct form from the affected credit bureau, bank, or business rather than creating your own from scratch.
Sample 9: Dispute with a Landlord (Security Deposit)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Date]
[Landlord/Property Management Name]
[Landlord/Property Management Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Dispute of Security Deposit Deduction – Property Address: [Property Address]
Dear [Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company],
I am writing to dispute the deductions made from my security deposit for the property located at [Property Address]. I moved out on [Date of Move-Out], and received a partial refund of my security deposit on [Date Received].
I am disputing the following deductions:
* [Deduction 1 Description] – [Amount of Deduction]. I believe this deduction is unwarranted because [Explain why – e.g., “the damage was pre-existing”, “this is considered normal wear and tear”].
* [Deduction 2 Description] – [Amount of Deduction]. I believe this deduction is unwarranted because [Explain why].
I have attached photos and/or other documentation to support my claim. I request a full refund of the disputed amount. Please provide a detailed explanation and documentation to justify these deductions if you disagree with my assessment.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 10: Disputing a Debt Owed to a Deceased Person
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Date]
[Debt Collector Name]
[Debt Collector Address]
[Debt Collector City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Dispute of Debt Owed by Deceased Individual – Account Number: [Account Number]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing in response to your letter dated [Date of Debt Collector’s Letter] regarding a debt allegedly owed by [Deceased Person’s Name], account number [Account Number]. I am the [Your Relationship to Deceased – e.g., Executor, Administrator] of the Estate of [Deceased Person’s Name].
I am disputing this debt because [State the reason for the dispute, e.g., “The debt is not valid”, “The statute of limitations has expired”, “The debt has already been paid”]. I have attached a copy of the Death Certificate as proof of death and documentation of my legal right to represent the Estate.
Please cease all communication regarding this debt until you can provide valid documentation proving the debt is legitimate and legally collectible from the Estate. I request validation of this debt, including copies of the original contract and account statements.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 11: Disputing Unwanted Telemarketing Calls
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Date]
[Company Name (if known)]
[Company Address (if known)]
[City, State, Zip Code (if known)]
Subject: Cease Telemarketing Calls – [Your Phone Number]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to demand that you immediately cease all telemarketing calls to my phone number, [Your Phone Number]. I have received numerous unwanted calls from your company, often at inconvenient times.
I have registered my phone number on the National Do Not Call Registry and have not given you permission to contact me for telemarketing purposes. These calls are a violation of the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA).
If I continue to receive unwanted telemarketing calls from your company after receiving this letter, I will consider pursuing legal action. Please confirm in writing that you have removed my phone number from your telemarketing lists.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 12: Dispute with a Contractor (Unsatisfactory Work)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Date]
[Contractor’s Name]
[Contractor’s Company Name]
[Contractor’s Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Dispute Regarding Unsatisfactory Work – Project Address: [Project Address]
Dear [Contractor’s Name],
I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with the work you performed at my property located at [Project Address], according to our contract signed on [Date of Contract]. Specifically, I am referring to [Describe the specific issues with the work – be detailed and factual].
The work is not in compliance with the agreed-upon specifications and is considered unsatisfactory. I have attached photos and/or expert assessments to support my claim. I request that you take immediate action to rectify these issues.
I propose the following solutions: [Suggest specific solutions, e.g., “re-do the work to meet the contract specifications”, “provide a refund for the cost of the unsatisfactory work”]. If I do not hear from you within [Number] days, I will be forced to seek alternative remedies, including hiring another contractor to correct the work and pursuing legal action to recover the associated costs.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 13: Dispute with an Insurance Company (Denied Claim)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Date]
[Insurance Company Name]
[Claims Department Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Dispute of Claim Denial – Claim Number: [Claim Number]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to dispute the denial of my claim, claim number [Claim Number], submitted on [Date of Claim Submission]. This claim relates to [Briefly describe the reason for the claim – e.g., “damage to my vehicle in an accident”, “medical expenses incurred due to an illness”].
I believe the denial is unwarranted because [Explain why you believe the claim should have been approved – e.g., “the policy covers this type of event”, “I met all the requirements for coverage”, “the damage was directly caused by a covered event”]. I have attached copies of my insurance policy, supporting documentation, and any relevant reports to further support my claim.
I request that you review my claim and overturn the denial. If the denial is based on a specific policy exclusion, please provide me with the exact policy language and a clear explanation of how it applies to my claim. I am prepared to pursue all available avenues to ensure my claim is properly processed.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 14: Dispute with a Utility Company (Service Interruption)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Date]
[Utility Company Name]
[Customer Service Department Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Dispute Regarding Service Interruption – Account Number: [Account Number]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to dispute the recent service interruption at my property, account number [Account Number], which occurred on [Date of Interruption] and lasted for [Duration of Interruption]. This interruption caused me to experience [Describe the damages or inconvenience caused by the interruption – e.g., “loss of perishable food”, “damage to my equipment”, “significant inconvenience”].
I believe this interruption was due to [Explain the reason for the interruption, if known – e.g., “negligence on your part”, “failure to maintain equipment”, “preventable circumstances”]. I request a detailed explanation of the cause of the interruption and the steps you are taking to prevent future occurrences.
I request compensation for the damages and inconvenience caused by this service interruption. I am seeking [Specific compensation requested – e.g., “a credit to my account”, “reimbursement for the cost of lost food”, “refund of the service fee for the period of interruption”]. Please review my request and contact me to discuss a resolution.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 15: Dispute with a Retailer (Defective Product)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Date]
[Retailer Name]
[Customer Service Department Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Dispute Regarding Defective Product – Order Number: [Order Number]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to dispute a defective product I purchased from your store (or website), order number [Order Number], on [Date of Purchase]. The product is a [Description of the Product].
The product is defective because [Explain the specific defect – be detailed and factual]. I discovered the defect on [Date of Discovery]. I have attached photos and/or videos of the defect as evidence. I have my receipt as proof of the purchase.
I request a [State your desired resolution – e.g., “full refund”, “replacement product”, “repair of the product”]. I am willing to return the defective product to your store. Please provide instructions on how to proceed with the return or exchange. I look forward to your prompt resolution of this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 16: Disputing Charges After a Data Breach
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Date]
[Bank/Credit Card Company Name]
[Fraud Department Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Dispute of Fraudulent Charges Due to Data Breach – Account Number: [Account Number]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to dispute several fraudulent charges on my account, account number [Account Number], that I believe are the result of the recent data breach at [Name of Company Experiencing Data Breach]. I was notified about the data breach on [Date You Were Notified].
The following charges are fraudulent and unauthorized:
* [Date of Transaction] – [Amount of Transaction] – [Merchant Name]
* [Date of Transaction] – [Amount of Transaction] – [Merchant Name]
* [List all other fraudulent charges]
I did not authorize these transactions, and I believe my card information was compromised during the data breach. I request that you investigate these fraudulent charges and credit my account for the full disputed amount. I also request a new credit card with a new account number to prevent future fraudulent activity.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 17: Dispute with a Gym Membership (Cancellation Issues)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Date]
[Gym Name]
[Membership Department Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Dispute Regarding Membership Cancellation – Membership Number: [Membership Number]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to dispute ongoing charges to my account, membership number [Membership Number], despite my cancellation request. I cancelled my membership on [Date of Cancellation Request] by [Method of Cancellation – e.g., “submitting a written request in person”, “sending a certified letter”, “speaking with a representative on the phone”].
Despite my cancellation, I have continued to be charged monthly fees. I have attached a copy of my cancellation request and any supporting documentation (e.g., certified mail receipt) as proof. I am requesting that you immediately cease all further charges to my account.
I also request a refund for all membership fees charged since the date of my cancellation request. If I do not receive confirmation of the cancellation and a refund within [Number] days, I will be forced to consider further action, including contacting my bank to dispute the charges and filing a complaint with the Better Business Bureau.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 18: Dispute with a Collection Agency (Harassment)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Date]
[Collection Agency Name]
[Compliance Department Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Cease Communication and Dispute Debt – Account Number: [Account Number]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to dispute the alleged debt you are attempting to collect, account number [Account Number]. I also demand that you immediately cease all communication with me, my family, and my employer regarding this alleged debt.
Your attempts to collect this debt constitute harassment and are in violation of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). Specifically, you have [Describe the specific harassing behavior – e.g., “called me repeatedly at unreasonable hours”, “contacted my family members about the debt”, “threatened legal action without proper basis”].
I request validation of this debt, including copies of the original contract and account statements. Until you provide me with valid documentation proving the debt is legitimate, I will not acknowledge the debt. If you continue to contact me after receiving this letter, I will pursue all available legal remedies.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 19: Disputing a Charge for Services Not Rendered
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Date]
[Company Name]
[Billing Department Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Dispute of Charges for Services Not Rendered – Account Number: [Account Number]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to dispute a charge on my account, account number [Account Number], for [Description of Service]. According to my records, this service was never provided to me.
I am disputing the charge of [Amount of Charge] because [Explain why the service was not rendered – e.g., the appointment was cancelled, the service was not completed, I never scheduled this service]. If you have proof of service please provide it to me.
I request that you investigate this matter, remove the incorrect charge from my account, and provide written confirmation of the correction. I am prepared to provide any information necessary to support my claim.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 20: Dispute with a Moving Company (Damaged Goods)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Date]
[Moving Company Name]
[Claims Department Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Claim for Damaged Goods During Move – Order Number: [Order Number]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to file a claim for damages to my possessions during the move conducted by your company on [Date of Move], order number [Order Number]. The move was from [Old Address] to [New Address].
The following items were damaged during the move:
* [Item 1] – [Description of Damage] – Estimated Value: [Estimated Value]
* [Item 2] – [Description of Damage] – Estimated Value: [Estimated Value]
* [List all damaged items]
I have attached photos and/or videos of the damaged items as evidence. I request that you process my claim for the total estimated value of the damaged items. Please provide me with instructions on how to proceed with the claims process and the necessary paperwork to complete.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 21: Dispute a Shared Responsibility Payment (Affordable Care Act)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Date]
Internal Revenue Service
[Address provided on the IRS Notice]
Subject: Dispute of Shared Responsibility Payment for [Tax Year] – SSN: [Your Social Security Number]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to dispute the Shared Responsibility Payment assessed on my [Tax Year] federal income tax return. I received notice [Notice Number] on [Date Received]. The assessment is for failure to maintain minimum essential coverage for a portion of the year.
I believe the Shared Responsibility Payment is incorrect because [Explain why you believe you qualify for an exemption or were covered. Examples: “I had minimum essential coverage for the entire year” or “I qualify for an exemption because my income was below the filing threshold.”]. I have attached documentation supporting my claim. This documentation includes [List attached documentation, e.g. proof of insurance, W-2 forms, etc.].<
