As many people know, you are entitled to a free credit report from the three major agencies --- TransUnion, Equifax and Experian --- on an annual basis. You can access your free credit reports from the Federal Trade Commission-approved website Annual Credit Report. While viewing your credit report, you may come across inaccurate information. Make sure you check your records before you dispute an item to make sure that the information is indeed incorrect.
Step 1
Contact the credit reporting agency that has displayed the incorrect information. You can either contact the agency by mail or through one of their websites: Experian.com, TransUnion.com or Equifax.com.
Step 2
Draft a letter that explains the item that you are disputing on your credit report. It should include the name of the creditor and the reason that the information is incorrect. You should also state within the letter that you want your credit report fixed and the item removed.
Step 3
Include a copy of your credit report with the item that you wish to dispute circled. It should have a report number that the company can reference in order to review your file. If you are disputing the item online and not by mail, you will enter the report number into the dispute form found on the agency's website.
Step 4
Enclose any documentation that proves that the disputed item should not appear on your credit report. Some examples of proof include payment records or copies of court judgments.
Step 5
Let the creditor know that the information that it provided to the credit reporting agency is incorrect. You should put the dispute in writing and also include any copies of documentation that proves the inaccuracy. Notifying the creditor ensures that the item will not be reported again to the agency.
Step 6
Send the letters through certified mail with a return receipt to make sure the letters are received. The creditor and credit reporting agency will launch an investigation in order to validate your claim. You will be notified of their findings at the conclusion of their investigation.
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