How to Delete Credit Information

If you have negative information on your credit report, it is hurting your credit score. A low credit score can keep you from getting a credit card or a loan, an insurance policy or phone contract. It may even keep you from landing your dream job. There isn't much you can do to remove negative credit report information before it expires, unless it's a mistake.

Instructions

1

Check your credit report regularly to make sure that there are no errors. You can get a copy of your report for free from www.annualcreditreport.com.

2

Alert the credit bureaus immediately if you find a mistake. You can do this by filling in a form on their websites. (See Resources.) The bureaus will investigate the dispute and make a ruling within 30 days. If your claim is upheld, the erroneous information will be removed.

3

Contact the lender directly if it fails to report a settled debt as "paid off." Lenders are required by law to report accurate information to the bureaus. If you've paid off a debt but your report says you haven't, the lender must correct the inaccuracy.

4

Contact the credit bureau if the lender refuses to comply. You'll have to prove that you have settled the debt. A canceled check is the best form of documentation. A letter from the lender saying that the debt has been paid is also good. Once the bureau has the proof, it will remove the outdated information.

5

Contact the credit bureau if the negative information on your credit report is more than seven years old. Most credit information expires after seven years and should not be on the report. An exception is a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, which stays on your report for 10 years.