Goodwill Letter Template
Ask a creditor to consider a voluntary goodwill adjustment for a late payment while accurately explaining the circumstances. Customize your free draft, copy the text, or print and save as PDF.
No sign-up. This form does not send or save your entries to our server. Use a reference or last four digits instead of a full account number. Review bracketed placeholders before sending.
[Your name]
[Your mailing address]
October 20, 2026
[Recipient name]
[Recipient mailing address]
Re: Goodwill Letter — [Account reference / last 4 digits]
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing about the late payment reported for account [Account reference / last 4 digits] for [Late payment month or date]. I request your consideration of a goodwill adjustment, if permitted by your policies and reporting obligations.
The circumstances were: [What caused the late payment]. The current account status is: [Current account status].
To reduce the risk of another late payment, I have taken these steps: [Steps taken to prevent another late payment].
I am asking for a discretionary review, not disputing accurate information. Please let me know whether you can accommodate this request. Thank you for considering my circumstances.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
Use your browser’s print dialog to save a PDF. Nothing is sent to the recipient by this tool.
How to use this letter
- Check the dates and current status against your records.
- Explain the circumstances briefly and describe concrete prevention steps.
- Send the request to the creditor’s designated contact and keep its response.
Goodwill Letter sample wording
The live preview above adds your contact details, account reference, date, and signature lines. Replace every bracketed placeholder and review the wording for your situation.
I am writing about the late payment reported for account [Account reference / last 4 digits] for [Late payment month or date]. I request your consideration of a goodwill adjustment, if permitted by your policies and reporting obligations.
The circumstances were: [What caused the late payment]. The current account status is: [Current account status].
To reduce the risk of another late payment, I have taken these steps: [Steps taken to prevent another late payment].
I am asking for a discretionary review, not disputing accurate information. Please let me know whether you can accommodate this request. Thank you for considering my circumstances.
Frequently asked questions
Is a goodwill letter a credit dispute?
No. A goodwill letter asks for discretionary consideration. A dispute challenges inaccurate or incomplete information.
Must a lender grant goodwill?
No. The creditor may decline, and accurate negative information may remain.
Should I say I paid if I have not?
No. Describe the current status accurately and only include steps you have actually taken.
Source and related tools
CFPB: Credit reporting disputesReviewed October 19, 2026. General U.S. information, not legal or financial advice. Requirements vary by state, account type, and circumstances. A letter does not extend a court deadline.