Learn how you can fix Errors on Credit Report by raising a dispute in 3 Simple Steps:
Credit report errors is a fact of life for most consumers. At some point, you may have to deal with a record that is inaccurate or fraudulent. There’s a mechanism in place for you to use to dispute credit report errors. Here’s what it is:
Step 1 -Get a Free Copy of Your Report
You can obtain a free copy of your report by going to www.annualcreditreport.com or by calling 1-877-322-8228. You’ll need a copy to send with your credit dispute letter.
Step 2 – Write a Credit Dispute Letter
Notify the complaint departments of all the consumer reporting agencies, TransUnion, Experian and Equifax, of the error on the report. In the letter, explain why the record is either incorrect or inaccurate. You can find a sample letter provided by the Federal Trade Commission here:
Sample Dispute Letter
Date
Your Name
Your Address,
City, State, Zip Code
Complaint Department
Name of Company
Address
City, State, Zip Code
Dear Sir or Madam:
I am writing to dispute the following information in my file. The items I dispute also are encircled on the attached copy of the report I received.
This item (identify item(s) disputed by name of source, such as creditors or tax court, and identify type of item, such as credit account, judgment, etc.) is (inaccurate or incomplete) because (describe what is inaccurate or incomplete and why). I am requesting that the item be deleted (or request another specific change) to correct the information.
Enclosed are copies of (use this sentence if applicable and describe any enclosed documentation, such as payment records, court documents) supporting my position. Please investigate this (these) matter(s) and (delete or correct) the disputed item(s) as soon as possible.
Sincerely,
Your name
Enclosures: (List what you are enclosing.)
Step 3 – Mail the Letter with Supporting Documents
Enclose supporting documents with your credit dispute letter to persuade the investigator to correct the record according to your request. For example, provide a copy of the letter from the creditor which shows that the debt was paid in full and that the account should be closed. Attach a copy of your credit report and circle the records that are in dispute.
You really need a lot of patience when it comes to disputing errors on credit report. Keep records of all communications between you and the agencies as you await the final outcome of your request.
