Seeing Wells Fargo on your credit report as a collection account can be frustrating—and it could be dragging down your credit score. Here’s what that means, how it affects you, and what steps you can take to fix it.
Why Is Wells Fargo on My Credit Report?
If Wells Fargo is showing up on your credit report under collections, it usually means you had an unpaid account that was sent to collections. This could be from a credit card, personal loan, mortgage, or even a checking account that was overdrawn and left unpaid.
When an account goes unpaid long enough, Wells Fargo may close it and either assign it to their internal collections department or sell it to a third-party debt collector. Either way, the collection entry can hurt your credit score and stay on your report for up to seven years—even if you eventually pay it off.
Seeing Wells Fargo on your report doesn’t always mean the information is accurate, though. Errors happen more often than you’d think, which is why it’s important to double-check the details and take action if something looks off.
How to Remove Wells Fargo Collections From Your Credit Report
A collection account can stay on your credit report for up to seven years, even if you pay it. But there are a few ways you may be able to remove it sooner:
- Dispute errors: Check your credit report for any inaccuracies tied to the Wells Fargo account. If anything is wrong—like the balance, dates, or status—submit a dispute to the credit bureaus.
- Request a pay-for-delete: You can try negotiating with Wells Fargo (or the agency handling the debt) to remove the account in exchange for payment. Not all companies agree to this, but it’s worth asking.
- Work with a credit repair service: If you’re not comfortable handling it yourself, a reputable credit repair company can challenge the account on your behalf.
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Learn how credit repair professionals can assist you in disputing inaccuracies on your credit report.
Should You Contact or Pay Wells Fargo?
Before you reach out or make any payments, make sure the debt is:
- Accurate: Verify that it’s really yours and that the amount is correct.
- Still valid: Debts have a statute of limitations, which varies by state. If the debt is past that limit, the collector can’t sue you to collect it.
- Not already expired from your report: If the account is about to fall off your credit report, paying it may actually reset the clock and hurt your score more.
If you’re unsure how to proceed, consider speaking with a credit professional before taking action.
Can Wells Fargo Sue You or Garnish Your Wages?
Yes, Wells Fargo can sue you if you owe a valid debt and they choose to take legal action. If they win, the court could allow them to garnish your wages or freeze your bank account.
That said, lawsuits are usually a last resort. Most creditors prefer to settle or work out a payment plan rather than go through a costly court process.
Wage garnishment laws vary by state, so check your local regulations to understand what’s allowed where you live.
Common Complaints About Wells Fargo Collections
Wells Fargo and third-party collectors working on their behalf have received consumer complaints, often for:
- Reporting inaccurate information
- Harassment or repeated calls
- Failing to validate debts when asked
If you’re experiencing any of this, you can file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) or the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Know Your Rights Under Federal Law
You have strong protections under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). These laws give you the right to:
- Dispute any incorrect or incomplete items on your credit report
- Request written verification of a debt within 30 days of being contacted
- Be treated respectfully—no threats, harassment, or repeated calls
- Receive clear communication that the collector is attempting to collect a debt
If Wells Fargo or any debt collector violates these rules, they can be held accountable.
Wells Fargo Debt Collection Contact Information
Mailing Address:
Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.
1 California Street
San Francisco, CA 94111
Phone Number: (800) 869-3557
Ready to Remove Wells Fargo Collections From Your Report?
Dealing with collections can be stressful, but you don’t have to go it alone. Credit repair professionals like Credit Saint can help you dispute and remove inaccurate information from your credit report. They’ve helped thousands of people clean up their credit and get back on track.
If you’re ready to take action, visit their website or call (855) 281-1510 to get started.
