I frequently receive calls from a law firm regarding a Capitalone credit card balance that they say I owe. I sent them a written request for more information about my alleged debt and they sent back a copy of the credit card statements, along with the application (which had a social security number that did NOT match mine).

I feel uncomfortable providing them with my social security number (even though this will clear my name), but am I required to do so in order to clear this mess up? They can send all the letters they want but at the end of the day I know this isn't tied to my SS#, so is it OK not to disclose this info since I know it won't affect my credit report?

You first need to file a police report, as this is a fraud case.

Second, contact one of the credit bureaus immediately and file a fraud alert on your history. They'll notify the other 2, so you don't have to...

You'll get a copy of your reports, look over them and make sure there aren't any other inaccuracies. Flag them immediately if it's the case.

Fax a copy of the police report to the law firm representing the creditor. They will do the investigation from there.

If you don't clear this up, they will eventually file a claim against you in court, and possibly obtain a judgment. So it's best that you handle this right now.