Before You Start: Is a Dispute Appropriate?

Accuracy-Based Disputes Only

The FCRA gives you the right to dispute information that is inaccurate, incomplete, or unverifiable. Before filing a dispute, honestly assess whether the information on your credit report is actually wrong.

Valid reasons to dispute include:

• Account doesn't belong to you (identity error or mixed file)
• Incorrect balance, payment history, or account status
• Account showing as open when it's closed
• Wrong date of first delinquency or last payment
• Duplicate accounts
• Unauthorized hard inquiries

What NOT to Dispute

Step 1: Gather Your Documentation

Evidence Checklist

Organize Your Dispute File

Create a dedicated folder (physical or digital) for each dispute. Include:

• Copies of all documents (never send originals)
• A log of all communications with dates
• Tracking numbers for certified mail
• Notes on phone calls (date, time, representative name)

Step 2: Choose Your Dispute Method

Step 3: Write Your Dispute Letter

Required Information

• Your full legal name and current address
• Date of birth and last four digits of SSN
• Specific account or item being disputed
• Account number (if applicable)
• Clear statement of what is inaccurate

Clear Description of Error

Be specific and factual. Instead of "this account is wrong," write: "The reported balance of $5,432 is incorrect. My account statement from [date] shows a balance of $2,100."

Supporting Documents

Attach copies (not originals) of all supporting documentation. Reference each document in your letter (e.g., "See Attachment A: Bank statement dated...").

Step 4: Send Your Dispute

Bureau Addresses

Certified Mail Process

1. Visit your local post office or schedule a pickup
2. Request "Certified Mail with Return Receipt Requested"
3. Keep the tracking number and receipt
4. The green card will be returned when delivered

Tracking Your Submission

Record your tracking number and expected delivery date. The 30-day investigation period begins when the bureau receives your dispute, not when you mail it.

Step 5: Credit Bureau Investigation Process

30-Day Timeline (With Extensions)

Under the FCRA (15 USC § 1681i), credit bureaus must:

• Complete investigation within 30 days of receiving dispute
• Timeline extends to 45 days if you submit additional information
• Notify you of results within 5 business days of completing investigation

What Happens During Investigation

1. Bureau reviews your dispute and documentation
2. Bureau contacts the furnisher (creditor) who reported the information
3. Furnisher must investigate and respond to the bureau
4. Bureau evaluates the furnisher's response
5. Bureau makes a determination and updates your file if needed

Furnisher Response Requirements

Furnishers must conduct their own investigation when notified by a credit bureau. They must review their records and report back whether the information is accurate, inaccurate, or cannot be verified.

Step 6: Review the Investigation Results

The bureau will send you a written notice of the results. There are three possible outcomes:

Step 7: Next Steps Based on Results

If Verified But Still Inaccurate

If the bureau verifies information you believe is still wrong, you can:

• Submit a new dispute with additional evidence
• Add a 100-word consumer statement to your credit file
• Request the method of verification from the bureau
• Escalate to a furnisher direct dispute

Escalation Options

• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB): File a complaint at consumerfinance.gov
• State Attorney General: File a complaint with your state's consumer protection office
• Federal Trade Commission: Report at ReportFraud.ftc.gov

Furnisher Direct Disputes

Under FCRA Section 623, you can dispute directly with the furnisher (the company that reported the information). This creates an independent obligation for them to investigate. Send your dispute via certified mail to the furnisher's address listed on your credit report.

Common Dispute Mistakes to Avoid

Frequently Asked Questions