If AAFES collections just showed up on your credit report, you’re probably wondering what it is and how to get rid of it. Here’s what you need to know—and what you can do about it.
What Is AAFES?
AAFES stands for the Army & Air Force Exchange Service. It operates retail stores on U.S. military bases around the world and is based in Dallas, Texas.
If you’ve used an Exchange Credit Program or a Military Star Card and fell behind on payments, AAFES may have sent the account to collections. That’s when it can appear as a negative item on your credit report.
How AAFES Collections Affect Your Credit
Collections accounts can hurt your credit score and stay on your credit report for up to seven years—even if you eventually pay them. That’s why it’s important to take action quickly.
Steps to Remove AAFES Collections From Your Credit Report
Here are your best options for dealing with an AAFES collections account:
1. Dispute Any Inaccurate Information
Start by pulling your credit reports from all three credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. If anything on the AAFES account looks incorrect—like the balance, dates, or even whether the debt is yours—you have the right to dispute it.
You can file a dispute online with each credit bureau or send a credit dispute letter by mail.
2. Request Debt Validation
If you’re not sure the debt is legitimate or accurate, send a debt validation letter to AAFES. They’re legally required to prove that you owe the debt and that the amount is correct.
If they can’t verify it, the account must be removed from your credit report.
3. Try a Pay-for-Delete Agreement
If the debt is valid, and you’re able to pay it, you can try negotiating a pay-for-delete. That means offering to pay the balance (or a reduced amount) in exchange for them removing the account from your credit report entirely.
Not all creditors or collectors will agree to this, but it’s worth asking—and be sure to get any agreement in writing before you pay.
4. Work With a Credit Repair Company
If this feels like more than you want to handle yourself, a professional credit repair service can take over the process for you. These companies deal with collection agencies like AAFES every day and know how to challenge negative items effectively.
Ready to Clean Up Your Credit Report?
Learn how credit repair professionals can assist you in disputing inaccuracies on your credit report.
Should You Contact or Pay AAFES Directly?
Before you reach out or send any money, make sure the debt is valid and still within the statute of limitations in your state. Paying an old debt can sometimes restart the clock on how long it affects your credit.
Also, once you start communicating or make a payment, it may make it harder to negotiate later. If you’re unsure, talk to a credit repair professional first.
Can AAFES Sue You or Garnish Your Wages?
Yes, AAFES can take legal action if you don’t pay the debt. If they sue and win, they could get a court judgment that allows wage garnishment or a bank levy, depending on your state laws.
That said, most collection agencies prefer to settle the debt without going to court. A lawsuit is usually a last resort.
AAFES Contact Information
If you need to get in touch with them:
Address:
Army & Air Force Exchange Service
310 Armed Forces Dr
Grand Prairie, TX 75051
Phone Numbers:
(972) 237-2389
(800) 654-4074
AAFES Collection Complaints
Like many collection agencies, AAFES has received complaints through the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). The most common issues involve:
- Incorrect or outdated account information
- Aggressive or harassing collection tactics
- Failure to verify a debt after being asked
If you’re dealing with any of the above, you can file a complaint with the CFPB or your state attorney general.
Your Rights When Dealing With AAFES Collections
Debt collectors must follow federal and state laws. Here’s what the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) and Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) protect you from:
- They can’t report false or incomplete information.
- You have the right to request written proof of the debt.
- They can’t threaten, harass, or call you repeatedly.
- They must be upfront about who they are and why they’re contacting you.
- They cannot threaten you with arrest or jail for unpaid debt.
Knowing your rights can give you the confidence to deal with collections on your terms.
Want Help Removing AAFES From Your Credit Report?
If you’d rather not deal with AAFES on your own, a credit repair company can step in and handle the process for you. Credit Saint has helped thousands of clients challenge outdated or inaccurate collection accounts—and they offer a 90-day money-back guarantee if the service doesn’t meet expectations.
Visit their website or call (855) 281-1510 to learn more.
Brooke Banks is a personal finance writer specializing in credit, debt, and smart money management. She helps readers understand their rights, build better credit, and make confident financial decisions with clear, practical advice.
