How to File a Dispute with Credit Bureaus

If you find an error on your credit report, filing a dispute with the credit bureaus is an essential step to correct inaccuracies and protect your credit score. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.

Step 1: Check Your Credit Report for Errors

Start by reviewing your credit report for any incorrect information. Common errors include:

• Incorrect personal information (e.g., name, address, or Social Security number)

• Accounts you don’t recognize

• Incorrect account statuses (e.g., account marked as “delinquent” or “in collections” incorrectly)

• Duplicate accounts

You can get a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus—Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion—once every 12 months through AnnualCreditReport.com.

Step 2: Gather Supporting Documents

To support your dispute, you may need documents that back up your claim. Examples include:

• Statements showing paid-off or closed accounts

• Documents showing your correct personal information

• Proof of payments or account closures

Step 3: File a Dispute with Each Credit Bureau

Each credit bureau has its own dispute process. You’ll need to file a dispute with each bureau where the error appears.

Experian

• Online: Visit Experian’s Dispute Center.

• Mail: Send your dispute to Experian, P.O. Box 4500, Allen, TX 75013.

• Phone: Call Experian’s customer service at 1-888-397-3742.

Equifax

• Online: Visit Equifax’s Dispute Center.

• Mail: Send your dispute to Equifax Information Services LLC, P.O. Box 740256, Atlanta, GA 30374.

• Phone: Call Equifax at 1-866-349-5191.

TransUnion

• Online: Visit TransUnion’s Dispute Center.

• Mail: Send your dispute to TransUnion Consumer Solutions, P.O. Box 2000, Chester, PA 19016.

• Phone: Call TransUnion at 1-800-916-8800.

Step 4: Submit the Dispute and Track Progress

After submitting your dispute, you’ll receive a confirmation and tracking number. You can usually track the progress through the bureau’s online portal or via email updates.

Step 5: Review the Dispute Outcome

Credit bureaus typically complete their investigations within 30 days. Once the investigation is complete, you’ll receive a response detailing:

• The results of the investigation

• Whether any corrections were made

• Instructions on next steps, if necessary

If the dispute resolves in your favor, the bureau will update your report. If not, you may add a statement to your report explaining the dispute outcome from your perspective.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to resolve a dispute?

Most disputes are resolved within 30 days, though complex cases may take slightly longer. You should reach out directly to the credit bureau directly for more information.

Will a dispute affect my credit score?

Filing a dispute does not impact your score. However, if the dispute leads to a correction, your score may change depending on the correction’s nature.

Can I file multiple disputes?

Yes, but be sure to include necessary supporting documentation for each item to increase the chance of a successful resolution.

Filing a dispute may feel daunting, but it’s a valuable step toward keeping your credit report accurate and your financial health in check.