Many consumers don't realize that they have some control and authority when it comes to their own credit scores, and that doesn't just mean wise spending and bill-paying habits. Consumers have access to their credit reports and should be responsible and aggressive when it comes to identifying errors, mistakes or incidents of fraud on their reports. Making those incidents known and encouraging changes and fixes to a credit report is an action available to every consumer.
Step 1
Order a copy of your credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus; Experian, Equifax and TransUnion. Visit their websites for information on how to receive one free credit report every year via the links provided below.
Step 2
Check the report(s) upon receipt and look for any items that you find questionable, or those that reflect negatively on your report, such as late payments, missed payments, judgments, liens and even bankruptcy filings. If you find any item in error, make a note of it.
Step 3
Write a dispute letter to each of the credit bureaus stating the error and while you feel it is a mistake, or explain why it should not be on your report. For example, a bankruptcy filing may appear on your credit report for 10 years, after which it must be removed. Collections may show up on a credit report for 7 years, after which they must be removed.
Step 4
Supply adequate documentation or proof backing up your claim that an item found on the credit report is in error and send a copy of the letter, an itemized list with supporting documents and a copy of your credit report to each of the three credit bureaus, even if the item only showed up on one credit report. This way, the error will be noted by all three and removal of the item (if successfully investigated in your favor) will be reflected by all three.
Step 5
Wait for a reply, which may take between 30 to 45 days. Credit bureaus are required by law to respond and initiate investigation of disputes within 30 days. In many cases, negative items will be removed, but if you find they have not, review reason supplied by the credit bureau and readdress if necessary.
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