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Someone to Turn To: Mr. Li’s Path to Financial Security
For Mr. Li, protecting his credit was about more than one unfamiliar account. It meant making sure that, when he needs credit for housing or other essentials, someone else’s fraud doesn’t stand in his way.
Educational
Written by Fareine Suarez, CASL Director of Marketing and Communications
When Mr. Li (name name changed to protect privacy) opened a letter from a bank he had never heard of, he didn’t ignore it. He took a picture and sent it to a friend.
Mr. Li, 72, moved to Chicago over 10 years ago and worked in restaurants for many years. With no family nearby to help manage his finances, he taught himself about technology and personal finance. He has always been determined to stay independent.
The letter he received was from a bank he had never done business with, and he couldn’t fully read it. His friend translated and suspected identity theft. He urged Mr. Li to contact CASL.
A CASL housing counselor confirmed that someone had tried to open a new line of credit using Mr. Li’s identity. Mr. Li was shocked. He had never knowingly shared his Social Security number or other sensitive information with anyone he didn’t trust.
The counselor listened, explained how the theft may have happened, and then went to work. She contacted the credit company on his behalf, told them the account could never have been opened by Mr. Li, and started the dispute. Mr. Li also learned about the three credit bureaus and how to track his credit through annualcreditreport.com.
Together, they reviewed his credit reports from all three bureaus and disputed anything inaccurate or not his. The counselor scheduled a follow-up before he left, to track his credit score and review the results of the disputes.
Mr. Li returned in March and April. He reported no new suspicious activity, and his credit was frozen. His credit score had risen by over 60 points.
For Mr. Li, protecting his credit was about more than one unfamiliar account. It meant making sure that, when he needs credit for housing or other essentials, someone else’s fraud doesn’t stand in his way.
Language barriers and the complexity of the U.S. credit system can make an unfamiliar financial notice hard to understand, and leave immigrants more exposed when fraud occurs. Mr. Li said he felt relief knowing he has a trusted partner, and that while living independently, he doesn’t have to navigate complex financial systems alone.
“CASL helped me understand my rights and take the steps needed to protect my personal identity and information. During a difficult time, CASL’s support gave me confidence, peace of mind, and access to resources I would not have found on my own. I hope donors will continue supporting CASL so that others in our community can receive the same guidance and protection when they need it most.”
Carry the care forward
Someone carried the care forward for Mr. Li: a friend who knew where to turn, and a counselor who followed through. Now it’s our turn. You make it possible for CASL to be there for more than 7,400 children, families, and seniors each year. About $35 a month from you helps one child, parent, or senior get the care, education, or connection they need. As government support grows less certain, your gift matters more than ever. We’re asking at least 100 people to give by December 31.
If your family needs help
CASL’s housing and financial counseling help people understand and protect their credit, spot fraud, and plan for stable housing. Call (312) 791-0418 or visit our Housing & Financial Counseling page to learn more.
