Credit report errors can result in denials for loans or credit cards. Information contained on your credit report is used to determine your credit score, a number that plays a significant role in helping a company determine if you are a good credit risk. Errors can occur when your information is entered into a credit bureau computer or can be made when the information is sent to the credit bureau from one of your creditors. If you believe that an item on your credit report is incorrect, you can dispute the item and ask for a correction of your report.
Step 1
Contact the credit bureaus and the company that reported the item to the credit bureaus. TransUnion, Experian and Equifax are the credit bureaus in the United States. Addresses and instructions on filing a complaint can be found on these websites.
Step 2
Check your creditor's website or an old statement for the address of the department that handles credit complaints. Call the number listed and ask for the name of the head of the department and address your letter to that person.
When you write to the creditor who reported the item, ask that they provide you with written proof that the correct or corrected information was sent to the credit bureau.
Step 3
Begin your letter by stating that an item is listed incorrectly on the report. Provide details about the creditor, type of account and any judgment entered by the court. Enclose a copy of the credit report and circle the item you are disputing.
(If you don't want to send a credit dispute letter by mail, you can dispute the erroneous items by filling out online forms on each credit bureau website. You will be prompted to enter a user name and password, which you can use to check the status of your complaint.)
Step 4
Explain why the item is incorrect and attach any documentation you have that supports your claim. If the account has been paid, include a copy of the canceled check. If a loan amount is listed incorrectly, send a copy of the original agreement.
Step 5
Ask that the item be removed or corrected to reflect the correct information. Attach copies of the credit report and the documents that support your claim and place them in an envelope with your letter. Make a copy of your signed letter and put in a safe place.
Step 6
Pay extra for return receipt service from the post office. When you pay for this service, the U.S. Postal Service will email, mail or fax you proof that your letter was received by the company.
Step 7
Call or send follow-up letters to the creditor and credit bureau if you do not hear anything after 30 days. The federal Fair Credit Reporting Act requires credit reporting agencies to investigate and respond to all complaints from consumers. You will want to make sure your letter has not gotten lost. Write down the date and time of the call and the name of the person taking the call and place that information in your file.
Things You'll Need
- Credit report copies
- Copies of canceled checks and bills
- Loan agreements
- Copy of dispute letter
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