I actually had success with HSBC a few weeks ago. I had a 30 and 60 day late in 2006 on a credit card that I had opened and never realized there was an annual fee. I explained that it was a misunderstanding, that I had an address change, etc and emphasized that I am a loyal HSBC customer with both checking and savings accounts at HSBC and that I have stayed with HSBC because of their excellent customer service. For whatever reason it worked and they removed all lates on the account after the second letter. I was shocked but it didn't help my score too much.
What really hurt me recently was actually the result of a GW to Dept of Ed. I have a total of 4 loans with them. One of the loans was reported (only on TU) as 60 and 90 days late in 2007. After I sent the GW, the lates were reported to all 3 bureaus and showed up for 2 of the 4 loans! Total backfire. But I actually realized after looking into the accounts more that they cut me short a month on my grace period after graduation so I sent a letter Friday explaining that and hopefully they will at least remove the 90 day late. I've heard 30s and 60s aren't as bad, but having a 90 can be as bad as a bk. Crossing my fingers!! I'm also hounding BoA. Already got a denial from the CEO so I'm going back to square one with them...I was thinking of sending pictures of the house I want to buy with the GW...maybe a CSR will have more heart than the CEO!!
