Identify the exact error, explain why it is wrong, and keep copies of your evidence and responses. Dispute inaccurate information with the bureau and the company that reported it.
Jump to a section
- Get your reports
- Find the error
- Send supporting records
- Review the result
Keep copies and confirmations at each step.
Start with your reports
Use AnnualCreditReport.com to request your reports. Checking your own report does not lower your score. Compare account names, balances and payment status across the reports.
Look for specific mistakes
Check for accounts you do not recognize, a payment marked late when it was on time, incorrect balances or information belonging to someone else. Save the report and note the exact item you question.
Send a clear dispute
Contact the credit reporting company and the company that supplied the information. Explain what is wrong and why. Include copies of supporting records and keep originals. Save your submission and any confirmation.
Follow the result
Keep replies with your records and check the updated report. If identity theft may be involved, follow the federal recovery steps at IdentityTheft.gov. Use the CFPB complaint process if you need help with an unresolved reporting problem.
Write a focused explanation
A useful format is: “The report shows [specific entry]. I believe this is incorrect because [reason]. The attached records show [evidence]. Please investigate and correct [requested item].” Use your own facts and provide enough detail to locate the account.
Keep the follow-up organized
Create one folder for each disputed issue. Keep the original report, your explanation, copies of evidence and all replies. When an investigation ends, compare its response with the entry you questioned rather than assuming the whole report has been corrected.
SEE THE NUMBERS
Example: a payment marked late
| Step | What to keep |
|---|---|
| Identify | Report page showing the account and disputed month |
| Support | Statement or confirmation showing the payment date |
| Explain | A short description of the incorrect entry and requested correction |
| Track | Submission date, confirmation and investigation response |
This is an organizational example, not a guarantee that a dispute will succeed. The records need to support what happened on your account.
Key terms, in plain English
- Bureau
- A credit reporting company, such as Equifax, Experian or TransUnion.
- Furnisher
- The company that supplied account information to a bureau.
- Dispute
- A request to investigate and correct information you believe is wrong.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Disputing every negative entry without checking whether it is inaccurate.
- Sending original evidence rather than keeping it.
- Losing the submission confirmation or the investigation response.
Questions to ask
Bring these to your lender, agent or housing counselor, as appropriate.
- Which report contains the incorrect item?
- What document shows the information is wrong?
- Did the result address the exact issue I raised?
Common questions
Can I remove accurate information by disputing it?
A dispute is a process for correcting errors. It does not guarantee removal of accurate information.
Should I check more than one bureau?
Yes. Compare your reports so you know where the information appears and which company needs a dispute.
What if the account is not mine?
Treat that as a possible identity-theft issue. Follow the recovery guidance at IdentityTheft.gov and keep the records with your dispute file.
Your next steps
- Download and review your reports.
- Gather records for each suspected error.
- Keep a dated folder of submissions and replies.
Sources and further reading
Official resources checked October 12, 2026. Loan and program rules can change. Confirm the requirements for your own purchase.
Educational information and planning examples; not a loan offer or personalized financial advice.