How to Write A Credit Report Dispute Letter

There are many ways to file a credit report dispute against negative entries. The most popular method is to write a letter and send it certified mail to the credit bureau. You can also submit a credit report dispute by telephone or online. With proper research and perseverance, you have a great chance of getting negative items off your credit report for good.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

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   Write a letter to the credit bureau reporting the error. Usually the agency is Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion. Give limited information about why your credit report dispute should be accepted, simply stating that the account is incorrect. Include your full name, address, and Social Security Number. Also include any credit report numbers you have.

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   Send the letter certified mail, to give you a paper trail in the event the agency does not properly handle your credit report dispute.

3. 
    
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   Wait a little over 30 days. If you do not get a response by then, send another letter reminding them that under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) they must investigate your credit report dispute and reply to your letters with the results.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider joining message boards to learn more about how to exercise your credit report dispute rights under the FCRA.
• Always type credit report dispute letters.
• Never give too much information about yourself or your accounts, whether the information is correct or not.

[JoyNmyHeart]

on 1/31/2009 Great article on writing a credit report dispute letter. With all of the id theft going on it is very useful info!

[RachelMoore]

on 1/30/2009 Good to know. Thanks.

[bar10dr98]

on 1/30/2009 I always wondered exactly how to do this, thanks!!

[meacham01]

on 1/30/2009 Very important tips, especially three.

[Ladybugblue]

on 1/30/2009 Very good article with great information!