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How to Dispute False Credit Reports and Credit Report Errors
Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, consumers have the right to dispute the accuracy of false credit reports, inaccurate credit reports, and credit report errors
. Under ordinary circumstances, credit reporting agencies and creditors are required to conduct an investigation in response to such a dispute. The credit reporting agencies are then required to notify the consumer of the results of the investigation.
It is not necessary to pay anyone to write a dispute letter! You can do it yourself for free.
Get Your Credit Report
The first step is to get a copy of your credit report from each of the "Big Three" credit reporting agencies (Experian, Equifax & Trans Union). There are many ways to order your credit report, but the best way is to obtain your free annual credit report by requesting it by mail. For detailed information about ordering your free annual credit report (including a link to the order form), click here.
You should get your credit reports from Experian, Equifax & Trans Union within a few weeks. When they come, review them carefully for accuracy. In particular, look for accounts you do not recognize. Also look closely at identifying information, such as aliases that you do not use and addresses that you do not live at. Keep in mind that accounts are often sold or assigned to other businesses, such as collection agencies and debt buyers. There have also been many bank mergers in recent years, with accounts being transferred or given new account numbers.
Write a Dispute Letter
Send a written dispute letter to the credit reporting agencies. Write a polite, professional letter detailing exactly what is incorrect and why. Be specific. Enclose documentation, such as police reports, correspondence with your creditors, and any additional information documentation you have.
Send your letter via certified mail, with a return receipt requested. Keep a copy of your signed, dated letter, along with copies of enclosures.
The addresses for the "Big Three" credit reporting agencies are:
Equifax
PO Box 740241
Atlanta, GA 30374
Experian
701 Experian Parkway
Allen, TX 75013
Trans Union LLC
PO Box 390
Springfield PA 1906
Review Your Credit Report and Follow Up
Review the credit reporting agency's response. Check whether additional information is requested and send it. If the credit reporting company didn't understand your dispute, write again with a clearer explanation of your dispute. Always send your correspondence via certified mail, with a return receipt requested, and keep a copy of your signed, dated letter for your records.
If you require legal representation or advice about identity theft or false credit reports, inaccurate credit reports, and credit report errors
, please contact the Oregon consumer attorneys of Baxter & Baxter, LLP.
If you require advice or legal representation about bankruptcy, contact the Portland bankruptcy attorneys of the Bankruptcy Practice Group of Baxter & Baxter, LLP. To speak to one of the Portland, Oregon bankruptcy attorneys of the Bankruptcy Practice Group of Baxter & Baxter, LLP, call (503) 297-9031.
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Information about identity theft in Oregon presented by the Oregon consumer attorneys of Baxter & Baxter, LLP.*
*The information provided on this website is intended as general information for the public and for advertising purposes. It is not intended as legal advice. If you believe you need legal representation or advice, please contact the Oregon consumer attorneys of the Consumer Litigation Group of Baxter & Baxter, LLP.
Information about Identity Theft
False Credit Reports after Identity Theft
Identity Theft Resources
Consumer Law Resources
For more information about identity theft, credit reporting problems, and unlawful debt collection practices in Oregon or Washington, contact Portland, Oregon consumer protection attorney Justin Baxter at (503) 297-9031.
© 2009 Baxter & Baxter, LLP
All Rights Reserved
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