Credit Law & Rights
Know Your Credit Rights
Federal laws protect your credit rights. Understand your protections and learn how to dispute errors and deal with collectors.
Key Credit Laws
Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)
Regulates how consumer credit information is collected, shared, and used. Gives you rights to access and dispute your credit reports.
Your Rights:
Free credit report from each bureau annually
Right to dispute inaccurate information
Notification when information is used against you
Limit access to your credit information
Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA)
Protects consumers from abusive, unfair, or deceptive debt collection practices by third-party collectors.
Your Rights:
Collectors can't call before 8am or after 9pm
Must stop calling if you request in writing
Can't use threatening or abusive language
Must validate the debt upon request
Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA)
Prohibits credit discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, age, or public assistance status.
Your Rights:
Right to know why credit was denied
Protection from discriminatory practices
Equal consideration for creditworthiness
Ability to have spouse's income considered
Truth in Lending Act (TILA)
Requires clear disclosure of loan terms, costs, and APR so consumers can compare credit offers.
Your Rights:
Clear disclosure of APR and fees
Right to rescind certain loans within 3 days
Standardized credit card terms disclosure
Protection against unfair billing practices
How to Dispute Credit Errors
Follow this step-by-step process to dispute inaccurate information on your credit report
1
Get Your Credit Reports
Request free reports from AnnualCreditReport.com for all three bureaus.
2
Review for Errors
Check for incorrect accounts, wrong payment history, or fraudulent activity.
3
Gather Documentation
Collect proof supporting your dispute (payment records, statements, correspondence).
4
File Your Dispute
Submit disputes online, by mail, or phone with each bureau showing the error.
5
Wait for Investigation
Bureaus have 30 days to investigate. They'll contact the creditor for verification.
6
Review Results
You'll receive results in writing. If not resolved, you can add a statement to your report.