If you spot incorrect information on your credit report, you have the right to dispute it. In most cases, fixing an error means contacting (1) the credit reporting company and (2) the business that reported the information (often called the “furnisher”).
Step 1: Identify the exact error (be specific)
Pull the report(s) that show the mistake and write down:
- The account name and account number (or partial number shown)
- What the report says
- What you believe is correct
- Why it’s wrong (wrong balance, not your account, paid but still listed unpaid, incorrect late payment, etc.)
If you suspect identity theft, follow the identity theft recovery process first, because disputes may require extra documentation.
Step 2: Dispute with each credit reporting company that has the error
Start by disputing with the credit reporting company (or companies) where the error appears. You can typically submit disputes online, by mail, or by phone—but a written dispute creates a clear paper trail.
What to include in a written dispute
Your letter should include:
- Your full name, address, and phone number
- A report confirmation number (if your report has one)
- Each item you’re disputing (one-by-one), including account numbers if available
- A clear explanation of what’s wrong and why
- A request to remove or correct the information
- A copy of the page showing the error, with the disputed item circled or highlighted
- Copies (not originals) of supporting documents
Tip: If you mail it, consider certified mail + return receipt so you can prove it was received.
Step 3: Dispute with the company that provided the information
Next, send a written dispute to the furnisher (for example, a lender, card issuer, landlord, or collector). Use the address shown on your report or the address the furnisher specifies for credit reporting disputes.
Furnishers generally must investigate and respond within 30 days after they receive your dispute.
What happens after you dispute
Credit reporting company investigation
After receiving your dispute, the credit reporting company must investigate, forward your dispute (and relevant info you provided) to the furnisher, and report results back to you.
They generally have 30 days to investigate.
“Frivolous or irrelevant” disputes
A credit reporting company can decline to investigate if it reasonably determines your dispute is “frivolous” or “irrelevant” (for example, you didn’t provide enough detail to identify what you’re disputing). If that happens, they must notify you and explain why—within five business days of making that decision.
If the error is confirmed (or can’t be verified)
If the furnisher determines the info is wrong or can’t be verified, it must update or remove it and notify the credit reporting companies so your reports can be updated.
If you disagree with the result
If the investigation doesn’t resolve your dispute, you can ask to add a statement of dispute to your file so future report users can see that you contest the information.
If you’re not getting traction
You can submit a complaint through the appropriate consumer complaint channel if you’re having a problem getting an error corrected.
Fast “Dispute Packet” Checklist
- Copy of report page with the error highlighted
- Dispute letter listing each error and the correction requested
- Copies of proof (statements, payoff letters, identity documents, etc.)
- Copies kept for your records
- Optional: certified mail + return receipt