How to Write a Goodwill Letter for a Late Payment

Late payments can negatively impact your credit score and linger on your credit report for years. But there’s hope—and it starts with something simple: a goodwill letter.

A goodwill letter is a written request to a creditor or lender, asking them to forgive a late payment and remove it from your credit report as a gesture of goodwill. If you’ve had a good payment history overall, many lenders will consider the request.

If you’re not sure where to start, this blog post walks you through how to write a goodwill letter that gets results, plus provides a sample you can copy and adapt.

Why Write a Goodwill Letter?

Even one late payment can lower your credit score, especially if your credit history is still growing. A goodwill letter won’t always work, but when it does, it can be a game-changer—especially if the late payment was a rare occurrence and you’ve otherwise been a responsible borrower.

Goodwill letters are best used when:

• You had a legitimate reason for the late payment (e.g., illness, job loss, financial hardship).

• You’ve since returned to making on-time payments.

• You have a long-standing relationship with the lender.

• You’re not disputing the validity of the late payment—just requesting a second chance.

How to Write a Goodwill Letter: 5 Key Tips

1. Be Honest & Humble

Acknowledge your mistake and explain the circumstances without making excuses.

2. Be Specific

Include the date of the late payment, the account number (last 4 digits), and your current payment status.

3. Show Accountability

Mention the steps you’ve taken since the late payment to ensure it won’t happen again.

4. Request Clearly

Politely ask if the creditor would be willing to remove the late payment from your credit report as an act of goodwill.

5. Keep It Brief & Professional

A one-page letter is ideal. Stay courteous and to the point.

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
[Date]

[Creditor’s Name]
[Creditor’s Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]

RE: Account #[Last 4 Digits of Your Account Number]

Dear [Creditor’s Name or Customer Service Department],

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my sincere apologies for the late payment reported on my account in [Month, Year]. I take full responsibility for this oversight and want to assure you it was never my intention to miss a payment.

At the time, I was facing [brief explanation: e.g., unexpected medical expenses, job transition, family emergency], which unfortunately impacted my ability to make a timely payment. Since then, I have taken steps to ensure this does not happen again, including setting up automatic payments and budgeting more carefully.

I have been a loyal customer and have worked hard to maintain a positive payment history with your institution. I respectfully request that you consider removing the late payment from my credit report as a gesture of goodwill.

Thank you for your time and understanding. I appreciate your consideration of this request and the support you provide to your customers.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Where to Send Your Goodwill Letter

Mail your letter directly to your lender’s customer service or credit reporting department. You can also try sending it via their secure online message portal if they offer one.

Final Thoughts

Writing a goodwill letter takes just a few minutes, but it could potentially save you months—or years—of credit damage. While there are no guarantees, being honest, respectful, and clear in your request gives you the best chance of success.