How to Self-Repair Credit

Legitimate credit repair doesn't have to come in the form of a specialist who takes your money for their magical credit-fixing services. Instead, there are many things you can do to repair your own credit, and the process may be even faster than the formalities that business-repair centers and specialists must go through. Additionally, many of the ads you see for places that can clean up your credit instantly are actually scams that leave you even further in a pool of debt. Take the initiative to begin fixing your own credit and start living a more debt-free life.

Instructions

1

Request a copy of your credit report from each of the three major credit-reporting companies: Experian, Equifax and TransUnion. These agencies are required to provide you with a free copy of your report upon your request every 12 months. These agencies have a central "umbrella" website whereby you can fill out your request online, or you can print out a form from the website and mail it in so that the reports will be mailed to you. You can also call the central site free of charge to make your request that the reports be mailed to you.

Annual Credit Report Request Form

annualcreditreport.com

1-877-322-8228

2

Search through your credit report with a fine-tooth comb for errors. Unfortunately, mistakes and incorrect reporting are a rather common occurrence on credit reports and nobody knows the validity of a debt better than you. If you find errors, it is your sole responsibility to dispute them by contacting the company that reported the claim, as well as the credit reporting agency. In some instances, the company who made the mistake will fully cooperate and send a letter to the credit reporting agency so that the error can be removed. Other times, you need to obtain proof and submit a claim to the credit reporting agency as a means of dispute. Once your claim is investigated, the credit reporting agency is obligated to notify you in writing within three days of their decision.

3

Call the companies with whom you have outstanding valid debts. Many businesses will greatly reduce the amount you owe, particularly if it is an old debt. If you are unable to pay the amounts owed, even at a reduced fee, ask what other options are available. Payment arrangements can often be broken down into monthly or bi-weekly terms at a more affordable pace. Negotiate by asking that excessive interest be removed. Many people are able to repair their own credit by taking the same actions that other organizations charge excessive fees for. Communication with debtors, as well as the credit reporting agencies, is the single largest factor in repairing your credit.