The Fair Credit Reporting Act gives you powerful rights as a consumer. Bureaus are legally required to investigate disputes and remove inaccurate information. Here's the exact process.
Step 1: Pull All Three Bureau Reports
Go to AnnualCreditReport.com — the only federally authorized source for free reports from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Pull all three and review every tradeline.
Step 2: Identify Disputable Items
Look for accounts that are not yours, incorrect balances, wrong dates, duplicate entries, and accounts past the 7-year reporting limit. Any inaccuracy is disputable.
Step 3: Write Your Dispute Letter
Address the specific bureau directly. Include your full name, address, SSN last 4, the account name and number, and a clear statement of what is inaccurate and why.
Key action: Send via certified mail with return receipt. This creates a legal paper trail and triggers the bureau's 30-day investigation clock.
Step 4: Follow Up and Escalate
If the bureau verifies the item and you still believe it's inaccurate, escalate to the CFPB at consumerfinance.gov/complaint. This adds regulatory pressure that bureaus take seriously.