How to Dispute an Error on Your US Credit Report
In this guide
Quick answer: The CFPB says to dispute a credit report error in two places: with the credit reporting company (Equifax, Experian or TransUnion), and with the company that provided the information, such as a bank, landlord or credit card company. Furnishers generally must investigate and respond within 30 days of receiving your dispute.
Step 1: Dispute with the credit reporting company
Contact Equifax, Experian or TransUnion online, by mail or by phone. Explain in writing what is wrong and why, and include copies (not originals) of supporting documents.
Step 2: Dispute with the company that supplied the information
Send the dispute in writing, preferably by certified mail, to the address on your credit report or the address the furnisher specifies for disputes.
What should your letter include?
- Your full name, address and phone number
- Credit report confirmation number, if available
- Each error, with the account number for any disputed account
- A clear explanation of why the information is wrong
- A request that the information be removed or corrected
- A copy of the disputed section of your report, with items circled or highlighted
- Copies of documents that support your position
Keep copies of everything you send. Certified mail with a return receipt gives you proof of delivery.
Timelines
| Who | CFPB |
|---|---|
| Furnisher | Generally must investigate and respond within 30 days |
| Credit reporting company | Must investigate, forward the dispute and report results; no specific deadline on the page |
| Frivolous dispute | Company must notify you within five business days of that decision |
If you do not win
If the furnisher finds the information accurate, you can ask the credit reporting companies to add a statement describing your dispute to your file.
Common mistakes
- Sending original documents instead of copies.
- Disputing with only one of the two parties.
FAQ
Do I have to pay to dispute an error?
The CFPB says disputing errors is a free right under the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
Key takeaways
- Dispute with both the bureau and the furnisher.
- Put it in writing and keep copies.
- Furnishers generally have 30 days.
Related guides
- First 90 days in a new country
- What is a credit report?
- What is a credit score?
- Credit freeze guide
- Build credit as a new immigrant
Last updated: October 2026. This is general information, not legal advice.
Sources
- CFPB: How do I dispute an error on my credit report?