Problems on my credit report are not mine

[tommycash]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? Indiana

I applied for a credit card at Home Depot in order to buy a Washer and Dryer. They turned me down, and it was because I had collections on my report. So I checked my report from Experian and found out that they have my father's debt (we have the same first name) on my report. My Equifax report does not have anything on it (as far as public records or collections). Aren't they supposed to check by social security numbers? That simple task would show that this is not my problem. No I cannot get my washer and dryer from home depot, and cannot re apply for another 30 days, and will not be able to take advantage of the sale. What can I do about this? I have already disputed the experian report online, but they won't let me talk to a real person. This will take at least 30 days, and my credit might be severally hurt in the process.

[Antigone*of*Greece]

Originally Posted by tommycash

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? Indiana

I applied for a credit card at Home Depot in order to buy a Washer and Dryer. They turned me down, and it was because I had collections on my report. So I checked my report from Experian and found out that they have my father's debt (we have the same first name) on my report. My Equifax report does not have anything on it (as far as public records or collections). Aren't they supposed to check by social security numbers? That simple task would show that this is not my problem. No I cannot get my washer and dryer from home depot, and cannot re apply for another 30 days, and will not be able to take advantage of the sale. What can I do about this? I have already disputed the experian report online, but they won't let me talk to a real person. This will take at least 30 days, and my credit might be severally hurt in the process.

This is an all-too-common occurrance. You've done what you can do for now. Make sure you follow up with Experian after the 30-days is over. If you know you were going to want to make a credit purchase, or apply for new credit, it is always a good idea to know exactly what is on you credit prior to attempting to make the purchase.

I might also suggest a credit monitoring service. They are relatively inexpensive and will alert you to any changes in the report (if you select one with that feature).