How to Fix Your Credit in Canada While Living in the USA

The major credit reporting agencies in Canada are Equifax Canada and Transunion Canada. Although these companies have sister companies in the United States, they don't necessarily share information across the border. This means that you most likely won't carry poor records into the U.S. unless your Canadian lenders decide to pursue legal action across the border. Fixing your Canadian credit score while living in the United States will most likely require some dedication, time and patience. You may not be able to make it perfect, but you should be able to improve your overall score.

Instructions

Contacting Credit Bureaus

1

Order a personal credit report from Equifax Canada by phone. The phone number is 1-800-465-7166.

You may be charged a fee for ordering a copy of your credit report.

2

Order a personal credit report from Transunion Canada online or by phone. The phone number is 1-800-663-9980. You may be charged a fee for ordering a copy of your credit report.

3

Review reports for any inaccuracies. Although most of the information should be the same, study and compare both reports.

4

Contact agencies to report and/or dispute inaccuracies. For Equifax Canada, call the Customer Relations Department at 1-800-465-7166. For Transunion Canada, call 1-800-663-9980.

Contacting Lenders

5

Call the owner of your largest debt first and work your way down. The more you owe, the more likely it is that the company will pursue legal action in chasing you across country lines. By contacting your lenders with a willingness to pay, you will be exhibiting good faith.

6

Work out realistic payment schedules with your financial institutions or debt collection agencies. Most lenders will be flexible with repayment schedules if they see that you are willing to make an effort.

7

Stick to the agreed upon payment schedule. It is important to be consistent in making payments to avoid more negative credit marks and potential late fees.