How to Dispute an Error on Your Credit Report (FCRA Steps)

One in three reports has a mistake — here's the fix

Federal studies have found that a significant share of credit reports contain errors, and some are serious enough to drag down a score or even mix in someone else's accounts. Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), you have a legal right to a free, accurate report — and a defined process to correct it. Disputing is free, you can do it yourself, and the bureaus generally must investigate within 30 days.

Step 1: Get your reports

Pull them from AnnualCreditReport.com — the only federally authorized free source — from each of the three bureaus (Experian, TransUnion, Equifax). You're entitled to a free copy weekly from each.

Step 2: Identify the error

Common mistakes: accounts you never opened (possible fraud or a mixed file), late payments you actually paid on time, wrong balances or limits, outdated personal info, or negative marks older than the allowed reporting window (most fall off after 7 years; bankruptcies after 7–10).

Step 3: Dispute with the bureau

• File in writing or via the bureau's online dispute portal. Identify each item, state why it's wrong, and include copies (not originals) of supporting documents.
• Dispute with all three bureaus if the error appears on each — they don't always share data.
• Also tell the furnisher (the bank or creditor that reported the information) in writing; they're required to investigate too.

Step 4: The investigation

Bureaus generally must investigate within 30 days and report the results back to you in writing. If they find the information is inaccurate, they must correct or delete it. If they verify it, it stays — but you can add a brief statement of dispute to your file explaining your side.

Step 5: If it's identity theft

Accounts you didn't open may mean identity theft. File a report at IdentityTheft.gov, place a free security freeze and fraud alert with each bureau, and use the FCRA identity-theft provisions to block fraudulent accounts from your report.

Bottom line: errors are common and costly, but the FCRA gives you a free, structured way to fix them. A single successful dispute can meaningfully raise your score.