Consumer complaint received 2025-09-12 00:00:00
Product: Credit reporting or other personal consumer reports — Credit reporting
Issue: Problem with a company's investigation into an existing problem — Investigation took more than 30 days
Company: EQUIFAX, INC.
State: NY

Complaint narrative:
I am filing this complaint because the following accounts and information are being reported inaccurately on my credit reports. These items violate my rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act ( FCRA ), 15 U.S.C. 1681, the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act ( FDCPA ), 15 U.S.C. 1692, and the Consumer Financial Protection Act. 
XXXX XXXXXXXX XXXX XXXX Date Opened : XX/XX/XXXX Balance : {$690.00} Late Payments XXXX XXXX This account is being reported with late payments that I dispute. The furnishers have failed to provide original signed contracts or verifiable proof of these delinquencies. Under FCRA 623 ( a ) ( 1 ) ( A ), furnishers may not report information they know or should know is inaccurate. Story : This late payment reporting has caused me to be denied credit cards and retail financing programs, which I needed for essential purchases. I have spent hours disputing this with no proper resolution, leaving me frustrated and financially limited. Every time my report shows late payments, it paints me as irresponsible, which is not true. The anxiety of seeing these false marks has affected my confidence when applying for credit and made me feel powerless in correcting the record. 
XXXX XXXXXXXX XXXX XXXX Date Opened : XX/XX/XXXX Balance : {$470.00} Late Payments XXXX XXXX  This account is also being falsely reported with late payments. The inconsistency between reported balances, dates, and payment history is a violation of FCRA 607 ( b ). No original proof or billing statements have been provided to substantiate these claims. Story : These false late payments caused a mortgage lender to deny me pre-approval for a home loan, directly impacting my dream of becoming a homeowner. I was forced to continue renting at a much higher cost. Additionally, insurance companies raised my premiums after pulling my credit, citing negative payment history. The presence of this unverified account has financially drained me and caused emotional stress, making me feel punished for something I did not do. 
XXXX  XX/XX/XXXX Inquiries This hard inquiry was placed on my report without my authorization or permissible purpose, violating FCRA 604 ( a ) ( 3 ). No written consent exists for this inquiry. Story : Because of this unauthorized inquiry, my credit score dropped, which caused a credit union to deny me a small personal loan I needed during an emergency. I have no relationship with XXXX, and I never gave consent for them to access my report. The thought that my personal information is being accessed without permission has left me feeling unsafe and exposed to potential fraud. 
Harm Caused These inaccurate and unverifiable accounts have caused significant financial harm, including denials for housing, loans, and credit cards. They have also damaged my reputation and caused me emotional distress. 
Relief Requested I demand the immediate deletion or correction of all items listed above. If the furnishers can not provide proper verification, the law requires removal. I request a full reinvestigation under FCRA 611, with written documentation of the procedures used. 
Failure to comply will result in escalation through legal action and further complaints with the FTC and the Office of the Attorney General.

Company response to consumer: Closed with explanation