Reviewing your credit report regularly helps ensure accuracy and protects your financial health. If you notice incorrect information, you have the right to dispute it for free. You can submit disputes online, by phone, or by mail. However, if the error appears on reports from all three major credit bureaus—Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax—you may need to dispute each separately.

This guide explains how to dispute credit report information, what you can and cannot challenge, and what happens after you submit a dispute.

Ways to Dispute Information on Your Credit Report

There are three primary ways to dispute inaccurate credit report items: online, by mail, and by phone. Each method works effectively, but online disputes are often the fastest and most convenient. However, certain issues, such as incorrect personal details, may require mail or phone disputes.

1. Dispute Online

Each credit bureau provides an online platform for disputes. Experian users can access the Experian Dispute Center, where they sign in, select the incorrect item, and submit supporting documents.

2. Dispute by Mail

You can also send a dispute letter along with any necessary documentation. Each bureau has a designated mailing address:

• Experian: P.O. Box 4500, Allen, TX 75013
• TransUnion: P.O. Box 2000, Chester, PA 19016-2000
• Equifax: P.O. Box 740256, Atlanta, GA 30374-0256

3. Dispute by Phone

Calling the credit bureau allows you to speak with a dispute specialist who can guide you through the process. Have your supporting documents ready before you call.

• Experian: 855-414-6048
• TransUnion: 800-916-8800
• Equifax: 888-378-4329

What Can You Dispute on Your Credit Report?

If you find inaccurate information on your credit report, you have the right to challenge it. Common disputable items include:
Late payments that you made on time
Incorrect account balances and credit limits
Closed accounts reported as open
Duplicate accounts appearing multiple times
Accounts you don’t recognize, which could indicate identity theft

However, some items, like legitimate debts or accounts you closed voluntarily, cannot be disputed just because you prefer they weren’t listed.

If you spot signs of fraudulent activity, such as unfamiliar accounts or addresses, it’s crucial to report them immediately to prevent further damage to your credit.

Steps to Dispute Credit Report Information

Learning how to dispute credit report information correctly increases the chances of a successful resolution. Follow these steps:

1. Gather Evidence

Before submitting a dispute, collect supporting documents to strengthen your case. These may include:

• Billing statements
• Loan payoff letters
• Court documents (if applicable)
• Identity verification (such as a driver’s license)

2. Submit Your Dispute

Use online, mail, or phone methods to submit your dispute, clearly explaining the error and attaching documentation.

3. Track the Status

After submission, monitor your dispute’s progress through your Experian account or the credit bureau’s website. Expect resolution within 30 days, though some cases may take up to 45 days if additional documents are required.

What Happens After You Submit a Dispute?

Once your dispute is filed, the credit bureau investigates by contacting the data furnisher—the company that provided the information. The investigation may lead to one of the following outcomes:

Updated – The incorrect information is corrected.
Deleted – The item is removed from your credit report.
Verified and unchanged – The lender confirms the information was accurate.
Remains – The bureau finds no error, and the item stays.

You will receive notification of the results. If the item is updated or deleted, you should see changes reflected in your credit report.

Does Disputing Credit Report Information Affect Your Credit Score?

Filing a dispute does not directly impact your credit score. However, if the dispute results in changes to your report, your score could increase, decrease, or remain the same:

• Your score may improve if a negative item, such as a late payment or collection account, is removed.
• Your score could drop if disputing a positive account leads to its removal, shortening your credit history.
• Your score won’t change if the investigation confirms the information was already correct.

What to Do If You Disagree With the Dispute Outcome

If you believe the bureau reached the wrong conclusion, take these additional steps:

• Contact the creditor directly – The lender may be able to correct the issue on their end.
• Provide additional evidence – If you have more supporting documents, resubmit the dispute with new information.
• Add a dispute statement – You can request a personal statement be added to your report, explaining your disagreement.

Monitor Your Credit Reports Regularly

Knowing how to dispute credit report information is essential, but preventing errors is even better. Regularly review your credit reports and use a credit monitoring service to receive alerts about changes.

By staying proactive, you can protect your financial health and maintain an accurate credit history.

If you ever need expert assistance or guidance on your credit journey, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Nerds! Additionally, stay updated with the latest tips and information by following us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok!