About 1 in 5 credit reports contains an error serious enough to lower a credit score. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) gives you the right to dispute errors with the credit bureaus and force them to investigate — usually within 30 days. Here's how to file an effective dispute.
Get free reports from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion at annualcreditreport.com. Errors often appear on only one report. Comparing them tells you exactly what to dispute and where.
While online disputes are convenient, written disputes by certified mail create the best paper trail. Include your full name, address, the specific error, and copies (not originals) of supporting documents.
Under 15 USC §1681i, the bureau has 30 days (45 if you submit additional documents) to investigate, contact the furnisher, and respond. If they don't, the disputed item must be removed.
Also dispute directly with the company that reported the error (the bank, collector, etc.). FCRA §1681s-2 requires furnishers to investigate disputes, and some claims are easier to win directly.
If the bureau or furnisher fails to investigate properly, willful violations entitle you to statutory damages of $100–$1,000 plus actual damages, punitives, and attorney's fees. Negligent violations get actual damages plus fees.
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NotALawyer.com provides general legal information, not legal advice.