Common Types of Credit Report Errors
Identity errors
Wrong name, address, SSN, or someone else's accounts on your report
Incorrect account status
Closed accounts shown as open, or wrong balance/limit amounts
Duplicate accounts
The same debt listed twice, often after it's sold to a collection agency
Wrong delinquency dates
Dates manipulated to reset the 7-year reporting clock
Unauthorized accounts
Accounts opened fraudulently - a sign of identity theft
Outdated information
Negative items still showing after the 7–10 year reporting period
Step-by-Step Dispute Process
Pull Your Free Credit Reports
Go to AnnualCreditReport.com to get reports from all three bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) for free. Review each carefully.
Document Every Error
Note the exact item, account number, and what's incorrect. Gather supporting documents (statements, letters, payment records) that prove the error.
File a Dispute with the Bureau
Dispute online at each bureau's website, by mail, or by phone. Online is fastest. Dispute with each bureau separately - they don't share dispute investigations.
Also Contact the Furnisher
Send a dispute letter to the creditor or collection agency that reported the information. This creates a paper trail and they have obligations under the FCRA.
Track and Follow Up
Keep records of all correspondence. The bureau must respond within 30 days. If the item isn't corrected, escalate to the CFPB.
Your Rights Under the FCRA
The Fair Credit Reporting Act Protects You
Key FCRA Rights
- Free annual credit reports from all three bureaus
- Free credit report when you're denied credit
- Free fraud alerts and credit freezes
- Right to dispute any inaccurate or incomplete information
- Right to know what's in your file
- Right to sue creditors and bureaus for FCRA violations
After resolving errors, focus on increasing your credit score and understanding how long negative items stay on your report.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a credit dispute take?
By law, credit bureaus must investigate disputes within 30 days (45 days if you provide additional information). Most disputes are resolved within 30 days.
What if my dispute is rejected?
You can escalate by filing a complaint with the CFPB (Consumer Financial Protection Bureau) or your state attorney general. You can also add a 100-word consumer statement to your report explaining your position.
How much can fixing an error improve my score?
It depends on the severity of the error. Removing an erroneous collection account or incorrect derogatory mark can add 50–100+ points in some cases.
Continue learning
Back to Learning Hub