GOBankingRates works with many financial advertisers to showcase their products and services to our audiences.
These brands compensate us to advertise their products in ads across our site.
This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site.
Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information.
you’re free to read more about oureditorial guidelinesand our products and servicesreview methodology.
Heres a step-by-step guide to help you dispute credit report errors and take control of your credit history.
Common Errors on Credit Reports
Not sure what to look for?
Here are some of the most commoncredit report mistakespeople find.
Tip: Before you review your reports, make a checklist of these common errors.
Itll make spotting problems easier.
How to Get Your Free Credit Report
Start by getting copies of your credit reports.
Youre entitled to one free report each year from each of the three major credit bureaus.
Visit AnnualCreditReport.com, which is the official site for accessing your free reports.
In addition, some banks and mobile apps offer free credit report access as a perk.
Step 1: Review all three credit reports carefully
Look through each report for errors.
Pay attention to personal info, accounts, and payment history.
Step 5: Explain why the item is wrong and include your proof
Be clear and concise.
Tell them whats wrong and attach your documents.
The bureau must investigate your dispute within 30 days.
enter to track the status, and keep an eye out for results.
Should You Dispute Directly with the Lender?
In some cases, its smart to reach out to the lender or creditor who reported the mistake.
This can be done either before or after you file a dispute with the credit bureaus.
What Happens After You File a Dispute?
Once you file a dispute, the credit bureau has 30 days to investigate.
If the lender cant prove the information is accurate, the bureau is required to fix or remove it.
When the investigation is complete, youll receive a written result explaining the outcome.
What If the Credit Bureau Wont Fix the Error?
How Disputes Affect Your Credit Score
You might wonder if disputing an error will hurt your score.
Heres the good news.
Disputing an error on your credit report doesnt hurt your credit score.
If the dispute results in an error being removed, your score could improve.
However, if the information is confirmed to be accurate, your score will stay the same.
After the dispute is resolved, always check your updated report to verify everything looks right.
Get your free reports today, review your credit report carefully, and take action if youspot a mistake.
A clean credit report can make a big difference.
FAQ
Share This Article:
