Finding an error on your credit report can be frustrating, even frightening, especially if it’s affecting your ability to get a loan, rent an apartment, or apply for a job. But you’re not alone, and you have rights under federal law. This step-by-step guide will show you exactly how to dispute the error, protect your credit, and start fixing the problem.
Step 1: Write a Letter to the Credit Reporting Agency
Your first step is to prepare a dispute letter and send it to the credit reporting agency. The most common CRA's are Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.
It’s critical that your dispute go directly to the CRA, not just the creditor or company that furnished the information. Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, you have no meaningful legal rights until a dispute is made to the credit reporting agency itself.
⚠️ Why Not Use the CRA’s Website?
Although all the CRAs offer online dispute forms, we strongly recommend mailing a letter instead. Here’s why:
Online portals may require you to waive some of your legal rights, including your right to sue in court if the CRA doesn’t follow the law.
You can’t attach detailed documentation as easily.
A letter creates a strong paper trail, which is critical if the CRA doesn’t fix the error.
📋 Credit Report Dispute Letter Checklist
Before you send your letter, make sure it includes:
✅ Your full name, address, and Social Security number
✅ A list of the inaccurate items (circle them on a copy of your credit report)
✅ A detailed explanation of what’s wrong with each item
✅ Copies of documents that support your position
✅ Information about any previous disputes, including phone calls
✅ A clear statement of what you want them to do (e.g., delete, correct)
✍️ Pro tip: Avoid internet templates or generic sample letters — many are shallow or misleading. The best letter uses your own words. If you need an example, the Federal Trade Commission has a helpful sample on its website.
Step 2: Mail the Letter Certified and Keep a Copy of the Letter for Your Records
Mail your letter using certified mail with return receipt and keep a full copy of your letter and proof of delivery. This documentation is vital in case the CRA ignores your dispute or fails to fix the mistake.
Step 3: Review the CRA’s Response to Your Dispute
Within about 30 days, the CRA will send you a response and an updated credit report. This response will tell you whether the disputed item was corrected or deleted.
Compare this new report to your old one. If the mistake is fixed — great! If not, save the response and continue to Step 4.
📄 Tip: The CRA must conduct a real investigation — it can’t just rubber-stamp whatever the furnisher says. If it fails to investigate properly, it may have violated your rights under federal law.
Step 4: Talk to an Attorney if Your Dispute Didn’t Fix the Mistake
If your dispute letter was clear and well-documented but the CRA still refuses to fix the mistake, don’t give up.
At this point, you should talk to a consumer protection attorney with experience handling FCRA claims. A lawyer can:
Review your dispute and CRA response;
Advise you on if you should dispute a second time;
Force the CRA to act or face legal consequences
Help you seek damages for harm to your credit
Most FCRA attorneys offer free consultations and, if your legal rights were violated, the law may require the CRA to pay your legal fees.