Whether you’re eager to finance a new vehicle or you’re looking to purchase a home with your spouse, you may be stopped dead in your tracks when you come to find that your credit report lists you as deceased. Unfortunately, remedying this error is not as easy as you may assume. The following blog explores what you should know about these matters, including the importance of working with a San Diego County credit reporting error lawyer to explore your legal options and fight for compensation for any damages you have incurred as a result of the credit reporting agency’s error.
Why Would a Credit Report List Me as Deceased?
Unfortunately, there are several reasons that your credit report may report you as deceased even though you are alive and well. Generally, one of the most common reasons is through data entry errors. In order to compile credit reports, companies like credit card issuers, service providers, and banks will send information about consumers to these agencies. The reporting bureaus will then input the information into your report. As names and dates are entered through multiple different channels before ending up on your credit report, you may find that you have been incorrectly reported as deceased because of a typo.
Similarly, if you are the victim of mixed files, you may be pronounced deceased prematurely. If you share a similar name and birthday, for example, as another person, the credit reporting agency may mix your information and report you as deceased when, in reality, it is the other person with whom your information has been mixed.
You may also find that if you have a co-signer and they pass away, that information can accidentally impact your credit report. When the reporting agency receives this information, it may accidentally reflect on your account. You should note that this error may also impact your social security details.
Can I Seek Compensation for the Damages Caused by This Error?
Being listed as deceased on your credit report can lead to a considerable number of issues. You may be denied loans and mortgages, which can impact your ability to make a living. For example, if you need a car to get to your new job, but you cannot secure a loan because of the false information on your report, you can sustain damages as a result. Not only can this lead to economic impacts, but you may suffer emotional damage as a result of the false information.
As such, one of the most important things you can do if you have been negatively impacted by false information on your credit report is to connect with an experienced attorney as soon as possible. At Barthel Legal, our team understands how difficult these matters can be, as filing a claim against a large credit reporting agency can feel like an unwinnable endeavor. However, our team will examine your circumstances to determine the best course of action to help you in the fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us today to learn more.
