Credit Repair Tool

Goodwill Letter Templates

A goodwill letter asks creditors to remove late payments from your credit report as a courtesy. Unlike pay for delete, you're not offering payment - just asking for understanding.

When It Works
You have a good history with the creditor
Late payment was due to genuine hardship
Account is now current
Single or few late payments
Important Notes
Success rate: 20-40%
Not legally required to respond
Best for original creditors, not collections
Be polite and professional
Late Payment Removal Request
Request removal of a late payment from your credit report
Date: [Current Date] To: [Creditor Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP] From: [Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State ZIP] Re: Goodwill Request for Late Payment Removal - Account # [Account Number] Dear [Creditor Name], I am writing to request a goodwill adjustment to remove a late payment notation from my credit report for the above-referenced account. I have been a loyal customer since [Year] and have always valued our relationship. Unfortunately, in [Month/Year], I experienced [brief explanation: medical emergency, job loss, automatic payment issue, etc.] which resulted in a late payment. Since then, I have: - Brought my account current - Maintained on-time payments for [X] months - [Any other positive account history] I understand the late payment was my responsibility, but I kindly ask if you would consider removing this notation as a gesture of goodwill. This single negative mark is significantly impacting my credit score and my ability to [refinance/get a mortgage/get better rates]. I am committed to maintaining our positive relationship and continuing to be a responsible customer. Thank you for considering my request. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Phone Number] [Email Address]
Medical Emergency Goodwill Letter
For late payments caused by medical situations
Date: [Current Date] To: [Creditor Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP] From: [Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State ZIP] Re: Goodwill Adjustment Request - Account # [Account Number] Dear Sir/Madam, I am writing to request a goodwill removal of late payment notations on my account due to extenuating medical circumstances. In [Month/Year], I experienced a serious medical emergency that resulted in [hospitalization/surgery/disability]. During this difficult time, I was unable to manage my finances properly, which led to late payments on my account. I have since recovered and: - Brought my account completely current - Set up automatic payments to prevent future issues - Maintained an excellent payment record for the past [X] months I have been a valued customer since [Year] and hope to continue our relationship for many years to come. I respectfully ask that you consider removing the late payment notations from [Month/Year] as a one-time courtesy. Your understanding and compassion during this challenging period would be greatly appreciated. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Phone Number] [Optional: Attach medical documentation]
Job Loss Hardship Letter
For late payments due to unemployment
Date: [Current Date] To: [Creditor Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP] From: [Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State ZIP] Re: Goodwill Request - Account # [Account Number] Dear [Creditor Name], I am writing to request a goodwill adjustment regarding late payments reported on my account. In [Month/Year], I unexpectedly lost my job due to [company downsizing/pandemic layoffs/company closure]. This sudden loss of income made it impossible for me to maintain my usual payment schedule, resulting in late payments. I am pleased to inform you that I have since: - Secured new employment at [Company] - Resumed regular on-time payments - Maintained a perfect payment record for the past [X] months I have been a loyal customer for [X] years and have always taken pride in my financial responsibility. I kindly ask that you consider removing these late payment notations from my credit report as a one-time gesture of goodwill. Thank you for your understanding and consideration. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Phone Number] [Email Address]
Goodwill Letter vs Pay For Delete
AspectGoodwill LetterPay For Delete
Payment RequiredNoYes (full or partial)
Best ForLate paymentsCollections
TargetOriginal creditorsCollection agencies
Success Rate20-40%20-40%
CostFreeDebt amount