How to Remove Public Information From Credit Reports

It is a very good idea to periodically request copies of your credit reports so that you are aware of what information is being given to potential creditors. Although part of the information in our credit profile is not visible to the public, we must be especially cognizant any of public parts of our credit reports that need to be removed or corrected. If there is information on your credit report that should not be there, take action quickly to correct the problem.

Instructions

1

Obtain copies of your credit reports. You can request free copies of your credit report online from each of the three major credit reporting companies: Equifax, Experian, and Transunion (see Resources for links). Do not simply obtain your report from one of the credit bureaus, as there may be different information on each report.

2

Research the problem. Does something need to be removed from your credit report because of an inaccuracy, or because enough time has passed since the incident (for example, bankruptcy filing) that legally you are allowed to request that it be removed? Make sure your request is well-founded.

3

Contact each credit bureau. Each credit bureau will have a system for challenging information on your credit report. You may make your request online, in writing, or over the telephone; just make sure that you are following the credit bureau's guidelines as to the correct process. Use each one's dispute mechanism to explain why certain public information should be removed. If the information is not public, there is no need to dispute the issue as potential creditors would not be able to view that information.
The credit bureau will be required to follow up on your request and will send you their decision as to whether they will remove the information.

4

Contact third parties. You may need to contact the creditor, company or organization involved in the information you need removed from your credit report. For example, if you need to remove erroneous information regarding a tax lien, you should call the IRS for a letter explaining the error. Such third-party documentation will help you with the credit bureaus.

5

Take it one step further. If the credit bureau does not initially agree that the particular information should be removed, they will provide information as to what further steps you can take. Call a customer representative to request specific instructions as to how to send in supporting information to prove your request is valid. You will then have a point of contact with a name and telephone number so that you can get periodic updates or ask further questions.

6

Request updated credit reports from all three credit bureaus. You can then send copies to any businesses or persons that have recently requested a credit check on you.