Errors on Your Credit Report? Disputing Them in 3 Steps |
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Credit report disputing 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: www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/credit/cre13.shtm.
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'll need a lot of patience when it comes to credit report
disputing. Keep records of all communications between you and the
agencies as you await the final outcome of your request.
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