Consumers should check their credit reports every year to make sure there are no mistakes or erroneous information contained in them, as well as to help protect against identity theft. Credit reports by three major credit bureaus; Experian, TransUnion and Equifax are available to consumers for free on an annual basis. Repairing or removing items from a credit report that are in error takes a bit of time, patience and understanding of the process, and consumers are advised to keep trying if a dispute or dispute request isn't dealt with on the first try.
Step 1
Obtain a copy of your credit report from each of the credit bureaus; TransUnion, Equifax and Experian. Carefully inspect the credit report for errors or mistakes, such as late or missed payments, collections, liens, credit inquiries that have been made without your permission or denial of credit lines that you did not make requests for.
Step 2
Write or call the credit bureau reporting the error or mistake you would like to dispute. Explain why the disputed item is a mistake, an error or why it should not be on there, such as in the case where someone without permission has requested a credit report on you. Provide as much detail as you can about the item.
Step 3
Make printed copies of all documents that may help to back up your claim, such as payment stubs, cancelled checks or bank statements, phone call correspondence or letters from creditors or lenders that has to do with the item you're disputing.
Step 4
Mail the letter detailing your dispute, along with supporting data or copies of documents that prove that you are correct, as well as a copy of the credit report. Consumers should also send copies of the correspondence dispute letter to the other two credit bureaus as well, even if the item does not show up on their credit reports. This way, changes can be made across the board.
Step 5
Wait for approximately 30 to 45 days for resolution or decision regarding your claim. The law requires that credit bureaus investigate and make a decision within 30 days. You should receive a notice from the credit bureau reporting any actions taken and a free copy of the amended credit report. If the credit bureau declined or refused to make the change, repeat the process, addressing reasons for why the request was denied with additional documentation if necessary.
Tips and Warnings
- Consumers may request that amended credit reports be forwarded to lending institutions or creditors who have requested or pulled a copy of your credit report during the previous 6-month period. For consumers who disagree with findings, you may write a document or statement specifying why you disagree with their findings and ask that it be included in any future requests for your credit report.
Member Comments