Credit Reports - How to Make a Dispute on Report Errors

By Rebecca Johnson

Anybody has the right to dispute errors in their credit report according to the FCRA. Because of this people will get protected against identity theft and fraud. In other cases where the report contains illegitimate charges, you can report this to the credit bureaus and creditors.

You need to know that your creditors are the one responsible for reporting your credit activities to the credit bureaus. Errors in your report might also be a cause of inaccurate reports from your lenders. This is not unusual. In fact, there are many instances where people experience this kind of trouble. That's the reason everyone is advised to check their credit reports at least two times a year.

So let's say that you have found some mistakes in your report? How will you handle this? How can you dispute this effectively?

The Process of Disputing Errors in Your Reports

When you are definitely sure that your dispute is DEFINITE, you have to prepare a dispute letter. If you don't know how, you can surely check the internet for some free samples. This can help you in writing a very effective dispute letter. Don't try to fill out the blanks of the original sample and send that as your dispute letter. To tell you frankly, it is not efficient.

Here's a fact you need to know: Credit Bureaus receive hundreds, or even thousands of letters. Most of them are just fake ones. When you do your letter, your main target is to get a response so that you can fix the errors. So, you might as well just look at the sample as a guide and make your dispute letter using your own words.

Point out the items that you want to correct. Remember that you SHOULD still write it professionally although if it doesn't need to be formal. Make it a point to proofread your letter and make the required enhancements Put it in an envelope when you're finished.

To make it easier to check the errors, attach a duplicate of your report and highlight the items you're complaining about. If you have a dispute about your bills, attach a copy of the particular receipts. Then, you can send it by using post mail.

Usually, it may take up to 30 days before you get a reply. This is because the bureaus will need more time to investigate. When you get feedback, you will know if your issue was resolved or not. If it was resolved, they will send you a duplicate of your latest and updated report.

You won't be charged for this one. The credit bureau who handled your dispute will also advise the other 2 major credit bureaus about the changes made and the investigation about your credit report.

Some issues are not resolved and mainly because the creditor denies or disprove the disputes. If this happens, speak to your creditor about it. Meanwhile, whenever someone request for your report, you can ask your credit bureaus to make a note that there are error issues which are not yet solved. This request might cost you a few dollars.

You see, you don't even have to hire somebody to make a dispute on your credit report. It easy when you know the proper method to do it and you are well-informed about the legalities. You won't even break a sweat!

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