My Credit Was Ruined Over Medical Bills and Health Issues—Now What? If medical bills or a personal health crisis caused your once-solid credit score to nosedive, you’re not alone. Millions of Americans experience financial strain due to healthcare costs, and even a brief period of missed payments can leave a lasting mark on your credit report.
Here’s what you can do to begin the journey of rebuilding your credit and protecting it going forward.
Understanding the Impact of Medical Bills on Credit
Your credit score is influenced by several factors, and payment history is the most important—accounting for 35% of your score. Even one or two late payments can drop your score significantly, especially if your credit was previously strong.
In your case, a drop from 710 to 635 is a clear sign that a late payment was reported, and it’s impacting your ability to qualify for favorable credit terms elsewhere.
Can You Get a Late Payment Removed?
If the late payments were truly your fault and not reported in error, unfortunately, there’s no legal basis for a credit card company or creditor to delete that information.
That said, here are a few things you can try:
✅ Ask for a “Goodwill Adjustment”
Write a goodwill letter to your creditor explaining your situation—especially if your medical issues were sudden or severe. Let them know it was an isolated incident and request that they remove the late payment from your report as a gesture of goodwill.
While not guaranteed, some lenders may agree to this if you have a long history of on-time payments.
✅ Set Up Automatic Payments Going Forward
Creditors are much more willing to work with customers who take proactive steps. If possible, set up auto-pay for the minimum monthly payment. This ensures that even during stressful times, you avoid damaging your credit further.
How Long Will Late Payments Stay on Your Credit Report?
Late payments typically stay on your credit report for seven years, but their impact lessens over time. Credit scoring models weigh recent activity more heavily than older negative marks. So:
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A late payment from last month will hurt more than one from 18 months ago.
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After 6 to 12 months of perfect payment history, your score can begin to rebound.
Tips to Help Your Credit Recover Faster
While you can’t erase the past, you can take control of your financial future. Follow these strategies to accelerate your credit recovery:
1. Pay All Bills on Time
Even if it’s just the minimum due, always make on-time payments. Set reminders or auto-pay to help you stay on track.
2. Reduce Your Credit Utilization
If you’re using more than 30% of your credit limit, it can drag your score down. Aim to pay down balances and keep utilization low.
3. Don’t Close Old Accounts
Your credit history length matters. Keep older accounts open, even if you’re not using them.
4. Monitor Your Credit Reports
Check your reports regularly at AnnualCreditReport.com to make sure no new errors appear.
5. Consider a Secured Credit Card
If your score dropped significantly, you might not qualify for premium cards. A secured credit card can help rebuild your credit with responsible use.
Lessons for the Future
Health issues can arise without warning. If you’re ever struggling financially, contact your creditors before the due date. Many are willing to work out short-term hardship programs, adjust due dates, or even temporarily defer payments without damaging your credit.
Even if you can’t pay in full, partial payments are better than nothing, and they show good faith.
Final Thoughts
It’s disheartening to watch your credit score drop, especially when the cause is beyond your control. But with time, consistency, and smart money management, you can rebuild your credit and restore financial confidence.
Focus on progress, not perfection—and know that your credit score does not define your worth or your future success.
FAQs: My Credit Was Ruined Over Medical Bills and Health Issues—Now What?
How long does a late payment stay on your credit report?
Late payments remain for seven years, but their impact fades over time—especially with continued on-time payments.
Can I dispute a late payment on my credit report?
Only if the payment was reported in error. If it was legitimately late, the credit bureaus will uphold the report.
What is a goodwill letter?
It’s a written request to a creditor asking them to remove a late payment from your credit report as a one-time courtesy.
Will my score recover if I keep paying on time?
Yes. Most scores begin to improve within 6–12 months of consistent, on-time payments and responsible credit use.
Should I close my credit card after a late payment?
No. Keeping the card open helps your credit utilization and credit history, both important to your score.
