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How to Dispute an Error on Your Credit Report

If you encounter an error or discrepancy on your credit report, it's crucial to dispute it promptly to maintain the accuracy of your credit information. Here are the steps to dispute an item on your credit report:

1. Identify the Error

Closely review your credit report and pinpoint the specific information you believe is incorrect. This could be inaccurate personal details, fraudulent accounts, incorrect payment history, or other discrepancies.

2. Gather Supporting Documentation

Collect documentation that substantiates the error on your credit report. This may include bank statements, payment receipts, correspondence with creditors, or other relevant documents.

3. Contact the Credit Reporting Agency

Contact the agency that issued the credit report containing the error. Their contact information can typically be found on the report itself or their official website. Some agencies also offer online platforms for initiating disputes.

4. Initiate the Dispute

Submit a formal dispute letter or use the agency's online dispute form. Clearly describe the error, provide your supporting documentation, and specify the corrections you're seeking. Be concise, clear, and thorough.

5. Notify the Creditor

Also, contact the creditor or financial institution associated with the disputed item on your credit report. Share with them the error details and the same supporting documentation you provided to the credit reporting agency. This step is vital as the creditor must investigate and rectify any inaccuracies they've reported.

6. Allow Time for Investigation

Upon receiving your dispute, the credit reporting agency will begin an investigation. They'll communicate with the creditor and review your evidence. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) mandates that agencies must investigate and respond within 30 days.

7. Review the Results

The credit reporting agency will give you written results of their investigation. If resolved in your favor, your credit report will be updated accordingly. You're entitled to request a free copy of the corrected credit report.

8. Follow Up if Necessary

If the dispute resolution process doesn't solve the issue or you're unhappy with the results, you can escalate your complaint. Consider filing a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) or seeking legal advice. Keep copies of your dispute letter and supporting documents.

Remember, regularly monitoring your credit reports from all three major credit reporting agencies helps catch errors early. Promptly disputing inaccuracies can safeguard your creditworthiness and financial status.

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Equifax

Online: www.equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services/credit-dispute/

By mail: Download the dispute form

Mail the dispute form with your letter to:

Equifax Information Services LLC

P.O. Box 740256

Atlanta, GA 30348

By phone: Phone number provided on credit report or (866) 349-5191

Experian

Online: www.experian.com/disputes/main.html

By mail: Use the address provided on your credit report or mail your letter to:

Experian

P.O. Box 4500

Allen, TX 75013

By phone: Phone number provided on credit report or (888) 397-3742

TransUnion

Online: https://dispute.transunion.com

By mail: Download the dispute form

Mail the dispute form with your letter to:

TransUnion LLC

Consumer Dispute Center

P.O. Box 2000

Chester, PA 19016

By phone: (800) 916-8800

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