How do I find out about a state tax lien?

Question

After applying for a loan, my credit card company is saying I have a state tax lien that was paid in '06. They gave me a Case # and a Court #. I called three states that I lived in since '04, and none of them have any record of it.

I have already gotten a free credit report with Experien and the other 2. I hate to give them an extra $10/month just to clear away what could be their stupid mistake, but trying to hit "dispute" without ordering a credit report seems to be all but impossible. Any advice here? Is there a federal database of state tax liens? Thanks!

Answer 1

If the state lien was paid in 2006 what is the problem?  

Answer 2

You said you contacted the states, but didn't mention which organization you contacted.  If it was placed by a Revenue Office, you might try the Department of Revenue for each state.

As for filing a dispute, if you have the free credit report already, you don't need to click "dispute".  I realize that's an option with some, but it's not the only way.  Every credit report has information for all creditors and the credit reporting company itself on it.  Usually this information is at the end of the report.  Send in a letter stating exactly what you are disputing, and ask for an updated credit report and explanation to be sent to you.  They have 30 days (or 45, I don't recall) to get back to you, or the information must come off your credit report.

Good luck, and if you have any other questions, just ask!