Consumer complaint received 2025-01-19 00:00:00
Product: Credit reporting or other personal consumer reports — Credit reporting
Issue: Problem with a company's investigation into an existing problem — Their investigation did not fix an error on your report
Company: AMERICAN EXPRESS COMPANY
State: MA

Complaint narrative:
I am writing to formally dispute the inaccurate and unfair reporting of my Amex credit card Account Number ( last 5 digits ) : XXXX on my credit report. Below, I will outline the multiple issues I have encountered with this account and the violations of federal laws that have occurred : 1. Account Status and Unexplained Balances : Amex marked this account as Charged-Off and labeled it as a Profit and Loss Write-Off. However, I was not issued a 1099-C form, which is required for tax purposes if a debt is forgiven. Despite marking the account as charged off, XXXX XXXX XXXXXXXX continues to report a balance on the account, which should not exist. Additionally, prior to the charge-off, unexplained charges were added to the account every month without my knowledge or consent, making the account appear overused.

2. Failure to Respond to My Requests : I have reached out to Amex multiple times, both in writing and via other communication methods, to request validation of the charges and an explanation of the ongoing balance. I also asked for a copy of the 1099-C form and proof of the reported charges. Despite my efforts, they have failed to respond or provide the requested documentation, leaving me with unresolved questions and a negative impact on my credit.

3. Lack of Disclosure and Unauthorized Reporting : Amex failed to notify me or obtain my consent before sharing my personal information with third parties, including credit reporting agencies. Under 15 U.S.C. 6802 ( Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act ), financial institutions are required to notify and provide customers with an opportunity to opt out before sharing personal information. Additionally, under 15 U.S.C. 1681b ( Fair Credit Reporting Act ), the reporting of information must be authorized and in compliance with permissible purposes. These actions represent a clear violation of my rights as a consumer.

4. Unauthorized Sharing of Personal Information : By reporting my personal information to third parties without my consent, Amex has potentially violated 18 U.S.C. 1028A, which pertains to the misuse of personal identifying information. I did not authorize the sharing of my information for collection or reporting purposes.

5. Unfair Treatment During Financial Hardship : I experienced significant financial hardship during this period, including the loss of multiple family members in XXXX. I communicated this to Amex and attempted to work with them to resolve the situation. Despite my history of being a responsible customer who paid off my credit card regularly and on time, they refused to cooperate or offer assistance, opting instead to place the burden solely on me and report the account to collections. 
These actions by Amex are not only unfair but also in violation of the Fair Credit Reporting Act ( FCRA ) and the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act ( FDCPA ), which require creditors to ensure accurate reporting and treat consumers fairly. 
Requested Resolution : I respectfully request the immediate removal of this account from my credit report due to the lack of validation, failure to comply with federal laws, and the unfair treatment I have received. This account has unfairly impacted my credit and caused unnecessary distress. 
I trust that the CFPB will take this matter seriously and investigate these violations. I look forward to your response and resolution. 
Sincerely, XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXXXXXX XXXX XXXXXXXX Phone : XXXX Email : XXXX XXXX

Company response to consumer: Closed with explanation