Our credit counseling advice is that everyone should check their credit report periodically. Do you know what to do when there is a mistake? Learn the steps to resolve credit report errors as well as an example credit report dispute letter.
Follow our credit counseling advice to write a dispute letter.
Explore a Credit Report Dispute Letter
It can be very annoying and somewhat unsettling to have to address credit report errors. While there are clear steps and procedures to follow, it can still be an overwhelming process. Becoming familiar with the steps as well as this credit report dispute letter can make any current or future incidents easier.
Steps to Fix Credit Report Errors
In 1971, the Fair Credit Reporting Act was enacted to protect the consumer. It states that consumers have the right to know what information is in their credit report, and to correct any errors. This legislation was designed to promote accuracy and ensure the privacy of consumer information in credit reports.
Contact the particular credit agency in writing with a letter stating the issue. Include any additional documents that could help your case. Do not use originals, only copies. Be very specific identifying the issues and how it should be corrected. The FTC suggests to, “Send your letter by certified mail, “return receipt requested,” so you can document what the credit reporting company received. Keep copies of your dispute letter and enclosures.”
The agency has 30 days to investigate the information. “Information must be removed from a file if the CRA cannot verify it, or correct the errors. If the consumer disagrees with the result of the investigation, they have the right to submit a 100-word explanation, giving their version of the dispute.” (FTC)
- Equifax
- Experian
- TransUnion
Sample Credit Report Dispute Letter
Here is the copy of a sample credit dispute letter that you can use to make your case. The bolded parts are the text while the unbolded italic areas are suggestions or alternative text you can use depending on your needs.
Dear Sir or Madam:
I am writing to dispute the following information in my file. The items I dispute are also encircled on the attached copy of the report I received. This item (identify item(s) disputed by name of source, such as creditors or tax court, and identify type of item, such as credit account, judgment, etc.) is (inaccurate or incomplete) because (describe what is inaccurate or incomplete and why). I am requesting that the item be deleted (or request another specific change) to correct the information. (use this sentence if applicable and describe any enclosed documentation, such as payment records, court documents)
Enclosed are copies of documents supporting my position. Please reinvestigate this (these) matter(s) and (delete or correct) the disputed item(s) as soon as possible.
Sincerely,
Your name
Enclosures: (List what you are enclosing)
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