Fixing credit report errors – what to do
To insure that the mistake gets corrected as quickly as possible,
contact both the credit bureau and organization that provided the
information to the bureau. Both these parties are responsible
for correcting inaccurate or incomplete information in your report
under the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
First, tell the credit bureau in writing what information you
believe is inaccurate.
The credit bureau must investigate the item(s)
in question – usually within 30 days – unless they consider your
dispute frivolous. Include copies (NOT originals) of documents that
support your position. In addition to providing your complete name
and address, your letter should:
- Clearly identify each item in your report you dispute.
- State the facts and explain why you dispute the information.
- Request deletion or correction.
You may want to enclose a copy of your report with the items in
question circled. Your letter may look something like this sample.
Send your letter by certified mail, return receipt requested, so you can
document that the credit bureau received your correspondence. Keep copies of
your dispute letter and enclosures.
Second, write to the appropriate creditor or other information provider,
explaining that you are disputing the information provided to the bureau.
Again, include copies of documents that support your position.
Many providers specify an address for disputes. If the provider again
reports the same information to a bureau, it must include a notice of
your dispute. Request that the provider copy you on correspondence they
send to the bureau. Expect this process to take between 30 and 90 days.
In many states, you will be eligible to receive a free credit report
directly from the credit bureau, once a dispute has been registered, in order
to verify the updated information. Contact the appropriate credit bureau to
see if you qualify for this service.
