How to Challenge an Incorrect Credit Report

As a consumer, you have the right to challenge a credit report with any inaccuracies. Use the following steps to get any errors on your credit report fixed.

Instructions

1

Get a copy of your credit report from the three credit bureaus -- Experian, Transunion and Equifax. Check for and flag any inaccuracies. Keep in mind that each credit report could have different errors so make sure to check each document carefully.

2

Once you have found an error in one of your credit reports, dispute the error either online at the credit bureau website or via a registered letter that references your account number, the error and any identification information.

3

Call the phone number for the credit bureau to make sure that you are including any documentation needed to challenge the credit report. Ask how long it will take to address any inaccuracies. The credit bureau should provide you with a form that you can fill out with all the requisite information.

4

After you have given the credit bureau a sufficient amount of time to correct your credit report, follow up to ensure that your issues have been addressed appropriately. Call the credit bureau and provide details of the inaccuracies and the date you sent out the letter and request a status update. The Fair Credit Reporting Act provides you with the ability to dispute any incorrect or incomplete information, so make sure that you continue to follow up until your credit report is completely accurate. You can challenge a credit report easily and have any inaccuracies resolved within 30 to 45 days.