Disputing an Error on Your Credit Report

Request your reports from all three bureaus at AnnualCreditReport.com. An error may appear on one report but not others, so review each one separately. Look for:

• Accounts you don't recognize
• Incorrect account balances or credit limits
• Late payments marked on accounts you paid on time
• Duplicate accounts
• Personal information errors (wrong address, misspelled name, incorrect Social Security number)

Note the exact bureau(s) reporting the error, the account name, and the account number before proceeding.

Your dispute is significantly more likely to succeed when you attach evidence. Collect documents that contradict the error, such as:

• Bank or credit card statements showing on-time payments
• A letter from the creditor confirming the account was closed or paid
• Identity theft reports or police reports (for fraudulent accounts)
• Court discharge documents for accounts affected by bankruptcy

Make copies — never send originals. Label each document clearly to match the disputed item.

You can submit disputes online, by mail, or by phone. Online or mail submissions are strongly preferred because they create a paper trail.

• Online: Use each bureau's official dispute portal. You'll describe the error, select a dispute reason, and upload supporting files.
• By mail: Write a clear dispute letter that includes your full name, address, the account in question, a description of the error, and what correction you're requesting. Include copies of your evidence and send via certified mail with return receipt.

File a separate dispute for each bureau that is reporting the error.

At the same time you file with the bureau, consider contacting the data furnisher — the lender, creditor, or collection agency that reported the information. Address your written dispute to the furnisher's customer service or disputes department. Include the same documentation you sent to the bureau. The furnisher is independently obligated under the FCRA to investigate and correct errors they reported.

Bureaus are generally required to complete their investigation within 30 days (or 45 days in some circumstances). They must notify you of the outcome in writing. Possible outcomes include:

• Corrected: The error is updated or removed.
• Verified as accurate: The bureau found the information to be correct. You can request the bureau include a statement of dispute in your file.
• Deleted: If the furnisher does not respond within the investigation window, the item must be removed.

If corrected, request an updated copy of your report to confirm the change appears.

If you believe the bureau's decision was incorrect, you have further options:

• File a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) at consumerfinance.gov/complaint
• File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
• Consult a consumer law attorney, particularly if the error caused you demonstrable financial harm (e.g., a denied loan application)

The FCRA gives consumers the right to seek damages if a bureau or furnisher willfully or negligently fails to correct a known inaccuracy. For personalized legal or financial guidance, consult a qualified professional familiar with your situation.