What is the 11 word phrase in credit Secrets?

  • Posted on: 15 Jul 2024
    Credit Repair Blog, Credit advisor blog

  • An in-depth look at the controversial and much-discussed 11-word phrase often associated with credit repair strategies.

    What is the 11-Word Phrase in Credit Repair?

    The "11-word phrase" circulating within credit repair communities refers to the statement: "This is not mine, never was, never will be." This phrase is presented as a powerful tool for disputing inaccurate or unverifiable information on your credit report. The theory behind its supposed effectiveness is that it triggers a specific investigation process by the credit bureaus, potentially leading to the removal of negative items.

    However, it's crucial to understand the context and potential pitfalls of using this phrase. While the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) provides consumers with the right to dispute inaccurate information, the 11-word phrase is not a magic bullet and its effectiveness is highly debated.

    The claim stems from anecdotal experiences and online forums, where individuals report successfully removing derogatory marks using variations of this phrase in their dispute letters. The exact origin and reasons for its alleged effectiveness are largely unsubstantiated, adding to the mystery surrounding it.

    Understanding the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)

    The FCRA is a federal law that promotes accuracy and fairness in the credit reporting system. It grants consumers several important rights, including:

    • The right to access your credit report.
    • The right to dispute inaccurate or incomplete information.
    • The right to require credit bureaus to investigate disputes.
    • The right to add a 100-word statement to your credit report.

    When you dispute an item on your credit report, the credit bureau has 30 days (or 45 days under certain circumstances) to investigate the dispute. They must contact the creditor or data furnisher who reported the information and request verification. If the creditor cannot verify the information within the allotted timeframe, the credit bureau must remove the item from your credit report.

    This is where the 11-word phrase is intended to come into play. Proponents believe that its specific wording might trigger a more stringent investigation or make it more difficult for the creditor to verify the debt, ultimately leading to its removal.

    How to (Potentially) Use the 11-Word Phrase

    If you choose to use the 11-word phrase, it's essential to do so correctly and within the framework of the FCRA. Here's a step-by-step approach:

    1. Obtain a copy of your credit report: Review your credit reports from all three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) to identify any inaccurate or unverifiable information. You can obtain free copies of your credit reports annually from AnnualCreditReport.com.
    2. Identify inaccurate or unverifiable items: Focus on items that are factually incorrect, incomplete, or items where you have reason to believe the creditor cannot verify the debt. This could include incorrect dates, amounts, account numbers, or debts that are not yours.
    3. Draft a dispute letter: Your dispute letter should be clear, concise, and professional. Include the following information:
      • Your full name and address.
      • Your date of birth and social security number (optional, but helpful).
      • The name of the credit bureau you are disputing with.
      • The specific item(s) you are disputing, including the account number and creditor name.
      • A clear explanation of why you are disputing the item. This is where you would incorporate the 11-word phrase, "This is not mine, never was, never will be," but phrase it properly within the context of the dispute. For example: "I am disputing this account because it is not mine, never was, and never will be. I have never had an account with [Creditor Name]."
      • Request that the credit bureau investigate the item and remove it from your credit report.
      • Include copies of any supporting documentation, such as proof of identity or documentation that supports your claim that the item is inaccurate.
    4. Send the dispute letter via certified mail: This provides proof that the credit bureau received your dispute letter.
    5. Follow up with the credit bureau: Keep a record of all communication with the credit bureau and follow up if you haven't received a response within 30 days.

    Why the 11-Word Phrase Might (or Might Not) Work

    Several theories attempt to explain why the 11-word phrase might work:

    • Triggers a specific internal process: Some believe the phrase triggers a specific code or flag within the credit bureau's system, leading to a more thorough investigation. This is highly speculative.
    • Shifts the burden of proof: The phrase might imply that the debt is fraudulent or the result of identity theft, potentially shifting the burden of proof to the creditor to provide more compelling evidence. However, simply stating the phrase does not automatically trigger this.
    • Intimidation factor: The assertive tone of the phrase might intimidate some creditors or data furnishers into simply removing the item rather than investing the time and resources to verify it. This is unlikely, as creditors deal with disputes regularly.
    • Placebo effect: It's possible that the phrase has no inherent power, and its reported effectiveness is simply a placebo effect. People who use the phrase might be more diligent in their dispute process overall, leading to more successful outcomes regardless of the specific wording used.

    However, it's important to consider why the phrase might *not* work:

    • The credit bureaus are aware of the phrase: Credit bureaus are likely aware of this popular phrase and may have adjusted their processes to avoid being manipulated by it.
    • The phrase is not a substitute for a legitimate dispute: If the item is accurate and verifiable, the phrase will not magically make it disappear. You need a valid reason for disputing the item.
    • Overuse can raise red flags: Using the phrase repeatedly without valid justification could raise red flags with the credit bureaus and potentially hinder your credit repair efforts.
    • It's not a legal requirement: There's no legal requirement for the credit bureaus to treat disputes containing the phrase any differently.

    Important Caveats and Warnings

    Before using the 11-word phrase or any other credit repair technique, consider these important caveats:

    • Credit repair is not a quick fix: Improving your credit takes time and effort. There are no shortcuts or magic bullets.
    • Avoid credit repair scams: Be wary of companies that promise guaranteed results or ask for upfront fees. Legitimate credit counseling agencies will offer transparent pricing and focus on education and budgeting.
    • Address the underlying issues: Simply removing negative items from your credit report will not solve your underlying financial problems. You need to address the root causes of your credit issues, such as debt management or overspending.
    • Don't dispute accurate information: It is illegal and unethical to dispute accurate information on your credit report. Focus only on items that are factually incorrect or unverifiable.
    • Consider professional help: If you are struggling to repair your credit on your own, consider seeking help from a reputable credit counseling agency or attorney.
    • Understand the consequences of identity theft: If you believe you are a victim of identity theft, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and contact the credit bureaus to place a fraud alert on your credit reports.
    • Document everything: Keep detailed records of all communication with the credit bureaus and creditors. This documentation will be invaluable if you need to escalate your dispute.

    Remember, the most effective way to improve your credit is to pay your bills on time, keep your credit utilization low, and avoid applying for too much credit at once.

    Alternatives to Using the 11-Word Phrase

    While the 11-word phrase might seem appealing, consider these alternative approaches to disputing credit report errors:

    • Provide specific details: Instead of relying on a generic phrase, provide specific details about why you believe the item is inaccurate. For example, "I am disputing this account because I paid it in full on [date] and have attached a copy of the payment confirmation."
    • Request documentation: Request documentation from the creditor to support their claim. For example, "I am disputing this debt and request that you provide me with a copy of the original signed contract."
    • Use the official dispute forms: The credit bureaus provide official dispute forms on their websites. Using these forms ensures that you include all the necessary information.
    • Work directly with the creditor: In some cases, it might be more effective to contact the creditor directly and try to resolve the issue.


Suggested Articles

📞 Build Credit Now!