How to Notify Credit Agencies

The three major credit-reporting agencies in the United States are TransUnion, Experian and Equifax. Each credit agency can be contacted for consumer requests, inquiries and general correspondence. You have a credit file with each of the agencies and must contact each agency separately to correct or update information documented on your report. It is easy to notify all three credit agencies; however, the method of contact can vary based on your needs.

Instructions

1

Notify a credit agency about fraud activity on your credit report. Contact the fraud department directly by phone to place a fraud alert or security freeze on your credit report. Either service is free, and the alert can be placed on your credit report immediately to prevent future fraudulent activity.

Contact Equifax at 800-525-6285, TransUnion at 800-680-7289 and Experian at 888-397-3742. Verify your identity with your Social Security number and date of birth.

2

Notify a credit agency about a dispute. Go to the agency's website and sign in using your personal identification number or password. Download and complete an online dispute form. Check the form for completion and then submit it directly from the agency's website. Print a copy for your records.

3

Submit general inquiries. To notify a credit agency about a general customer service matter or to provide feedback about a product or service, contact the agency by mail. You can also notify the agency about a recent divorce. Include supporting documents such as a divorce decree, and itemize the jointly held accounts affected by the divorce.