Goodwill Adjustment Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Recipient's Name]
[Recipient's Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Goodwill Adjustment Request
Dear [Recipient's Name],
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to you as a loyal and valued customer of [Company Name]. I have been a [length of time] customer and have always appreciated the excellent products and services your company provides.
I recently reviewed my account statement and noticed a [specific issue/problem] that occurred on [date]. While I understand that mistakes can happen, I would like to kindly request a goodwill adjustment for this situation. I believe that this request aligns with the strong customer service reputation that [Company Name] is known for.
I have always maintained a positive and timely payment history with your company, and I truly value the relationship we have built over the years. I kindly request your understanding and assistance in resolving this matter promptly. The goodwill adjustment I am seeking would greatly help in rectifying the discrepancy and maintaining the trust I have in your brand.
Enclosed with this letter, please find relevant documentation, including copies of [any supporting documents, such as receipts, statements, or correspondence]. I hope this information will assist you in reviewing my request and making an informed decision.
I would like to express my sincere appreciation for your attention to this matter. If you require any further information or if there are additional steps I need to take to facilitate the goodwill adjustment process, please do not hesitate to contact me at [your phone number] or [your email address]. I am more than willing to cooperate and provide any necessary details.
Thank you for your time, understanding, and continued commitment to exceptional customer service. I am confident that we can resolve this matter amicably and maintain the positive customer relationship that I have come to value.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Enclosures: [List of enclosed documents, if applicable]
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Formal Goodwill Adjustment Letter to a Bank
Subject: Request for Goodwill Adjustment
Dear [Bank Representative’s Name],
I am writing to respectfully request a goodwill adjustment on my account with [Bank Name]. I have been a loyal customer for [X years] and have consistently managed my account responsibly, with the exception of a recent late payment due to [brief explanation, e.g., unforeseen medical emergency].
This was an isolated incident, and I have since taken steps to ensure that it will not happen again. I highly value my relationship with your institution and would be grateful if you could remove the late payment record as a gesture of goodwill.
I truly appreciate your time and consideration of my request. I look forward to continuing my positive banking relationship with [Bank Name].
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
Casual Goodwill Adjustment Email for Credit Card Company
Subject: Quick Favor Regarding My Account
Hi [Representative’s Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I’ve been a customer with [Company Name] for quite some time, and I’ve always tried to keep my payments on time. Unfortunately, I slipped up once because of [reason, e.g., unexpected travel], and it shows as a late payment on my record.
I’d really appreciate it if you could make a goodwill adjustment and remove this mark. I’ve already set up auto-pay to make sure it never happens again.
Thanks a ton for your help!
Best,
[Your Name]
Goodwill Adjustment Letter for Utility Company
Subject: Request for Adjustment to My Account Record
Dear [Utility Company Representative],
I am reaching out to request a goodwill adjustment on my account, [Account Number]. I have been a customer of [Company Name] for several years and have always paid my bills promptly, with the exception of a recent missed payment caused by [explain situation].
As a responsible and long-term customer, I kindly request that you consider removing this record from my account history. I have already taken corrective measures to ensure that payments are processed on time going forward.
Thank you very much for your understanding and for considering my request.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
Professional Goodwill Adjustment Letter for Loan Provider
Subject: Goodwill Adjustment Request
Dear [Loan Officer’s Name],
I am writing to request a goodwill adjustment concerning my account, [Account Number]. Due to [specific reason], I was unable to make a timely payment, which has since been corrected. This late mark does not reflect my usual financial responsibility, as I have otherwise maintained consistent and reliable payments.
I respectfully request that you consider removing this negative record as a goodwill gesture. I am committed to continuing my strong repayment history.
Thank you for your understanding and your assistance in this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Heartfelt Goodwill Adjustment Letter Explaining Hardship
Subject: Request for Goodwill Adjustment Due to Hardship
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
I am writing to you with sincerity regarding my account with [Company Name]. Due to unexpected hardships, including [brief description: illness, job loss, family emergency], I missed a payment which has affected my account history.
This situation was temporary, and I have since returned to making consistent payments. I deeply value my relationship with your company and respectfully request a goodwill adjustment to remove this record.
Your understanding and support would mean a great deal to me during this time. Thank you for considering my request.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Quick Goodwill Adjustment Email
Subject: Request for Account Adjustment
Dear [Recipient],
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to kindly request a goodwill adjustment on my account [Account Number]. I had one late payment due to [reason], but I have since resolved the issue.
As a loyal customer, I would appreciate your assistance in removing this from my record.
Thank you for your help.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Official Goodwill Adjustment Letter for Insurance Company
Subject: Request for Goodwill Adjustment on Policy Record
Dear [Insurance Representative],
I am writing to formally request a goodwill adjustment concerning my policy with [Insurance Company Name]. Due to [brief explanation], I missed a payment which has been recorded on my policy history.
As a policyholder in good standing for [X years], I kindly request your consideration to remove this entry as a one-time courtesy. I have already implemented measures to ensure that such an oversight does not occur again.
I would appreciate your support in maintaining my positive standing with your company.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
Friendly Goodwill Adjustment Message for Service Provider
Subject: Request for a Little Help with My Account
Hi [Representative’s Name],
I’ve been a happy customer of [Company Name] for a long time and I really value the service you provide. Unfortunately, I had a hiccup with my account recently and missed a payment due to [reason].
I’ve already fixed the issue and set up reminders so it doesn’t happen again. I was wondering if you could help me out with a goodwill adjustment and remove this from my record.
Thanks so much for your help and for all that you do!
Best,
[Your Name]
What is a Goodwill Adjustment Letter and Why Do You Need It
A Goodwill Adjustment Letter is a written request asking a creditor, lender, utility, or service provider to remove or correct a negative entry (like a late payment) from your account history.
You need it because:
- It helps repair or maintain your credit history.
- It demonstrates accountability while requesting leniency.
- It shows good faith and strengthens long-term customer relationships.
- It provides a documented, professional way to request assistance.
Who Should Send a Goodwill Adjustment Letter
- Customers who have generally maintained good standing but made an isolated mistake.
- Borrowers who want to fix minor blemishes on their loan or credit history.
- Policyholders or utility account holders who want to maintain positive records.
- Individuals who experienced temporary hardship and want understanding from the company.
Whom Should the Letter Be Addressed To
- Customer service representatives of the bank, utility, or service provider.
- Loan officers or account managers handling your case.
- The credit department or collections team.
- Supervisors or managers for escalated requests.
- Insurance or policy representatives for account adjustments.
When Should You Send a Goodwill Adjustment Letter
- Immediately after noticing a negative mark on your account.
- After resolving the issue that caused the late payment.
- Once you have re-established consistent payments.
- When you have maintained a good track record with the provider for years.
- When applying for a loan or mortgage and needing a cleaner credit report.
How to Write and Send a Goodwill Adjustment Letter
- Start with a polite greeting and subject line.
- State your request clearly: a goodwill adjustment.
- Explain the cause of the late payment or issue briefly.
- Show accountability and outline steps you’ve taken to prevent recurrence.
- Highlight your history of being a loyal, responsible customer.
- Close with appreciation and a request for understanding.
- Send via email for quick communication or by letter for official matters.
Formatting Guidelines for Goodwill Adjustment Letters
- Length: 2–4 paragraphs.
- Tone: Respectful, professional, sometimes heartfelt.
- Style: Polite, concise, and clear.
- Mode: Email for casual and quick requests, formal letter for official organizations.
- Etiquette: Always thank the recipient for their time and consideration.
- Attachments: Optional, such as proof of payments or hardship documentation.
Requirements and Prerequisites Before Writing
- Ensure the issue has been resolved (missed payment corrected).
- Gather account details and relevant references.
- Review your payment history to highlight reliability.
- Identify the right person or department to address.
- Prepare a clear and respectful explanation.
FAQ About Goodwill Adjustment Letters
Q: Does a goodwill adjustment always work?
A: Not always—it depends on the provider’s policies and your history.
Q: How long should I wait for a response?
A: Usually 2–4 weeks, but it can vary depending on the organization.
Q: Can I send multiple requests?
A: Yes, but space them out and avoid being pushy.
Q: Should I include documentation?
A: Only if it supports your explanation, such as medical or job loss records.
After Sending a Goodwill Adjustment Letter
- Wait for confirmation of receipt.
- Be patient, as processing can take weeks.
- If denied, politely follow up or escalate to a higher department.
- Maintain positive account activity to strengthen future requests.
- Document the correspondence for your records.
Pros and Cons of Sending a Goodwill Adjustment Letter
Pros:
- Can improve credit score and account history.
- Shows initiative and responsibility.
- Strengthens customer-provider relationship.
Cons:
- No guarantee of approval.
- Some companies may have strict policies.
- Multiple requests may be seen as bothersome.
Tricks and Tips for Effective Goodwill Adjustment Requests
- Personalize the letter instead of using a generic template.
- Emphasize loyalty and reliability as a customer.
- Be humble and polite throughout.
- Keep it short and focused on the request.
- Use specific details like account numbers and dates.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Goodwill Adjustment Letters
- Blaming the company instead of owning the mistake.
- Writing a letter that is too long or emotional.
- Leaving out important details like account numbers.
- Demanding instead of requesting politely.
- Forgetting to proofread for grammar and tone.
Elements and Structure of a Goodwill Adjustment Letter
- Greeting: Address the recipient by name if possible.
- Introduction: State your relationship with the company.
- Reason: Brief explanation of the missed payment or issue.
- Request: Clearly ask for a goodwill adjustment.
- Assurance: Mention steps taken to prevent recurrence.
- Closing: Express appreciation and respect.
- Signature: Your name and contact information.
