How to dispute a credit report

Disputing is a legal process, not a favor. Done properly, it forces the bureau and the furnisher to verify the item or remove it.

Quick takeaways

Be specific: item, error, correction, evidence.
Dispute with every bureau reporting it, plus the furnisher.
Results come in writing, generally within 30 days.

What to send

Identify each disputed item specifically, state exactly what is wrong, say what the correct information is, and attach supporting documents plus proof of identity. Keep it factual and keep copies of everything.

Where to send it

To each bureau reporting the error, and separately to the furnisher. Sending to only one bureau leaves the same error alive on the others.

What happens next

The bureau generally has 30 days to investigate and must give you the results in writing. If the item is corrected or deleted, request an updated report. If it is verified and you still disagree, you can add a statement of dispute or escalate with more evidence.

Accurate, timely and verifiable information cannot be removed from a credit report. What can be challenged is information that is wrong, outdated, duplicated, or that the furnisher cannot verify when asked.

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