Credit reports contain various information regarding your past and present financial accounts. It is possible for credit reports to contain errors not only in the account information but in the personal information listed on the credit report. Other people's names showing on your credit report may or may not be in error.
Credit Reports
Creditors report information to the credit bureaus. A creditor reports the type of account, balance, credit limit and monthly payment as well as the names and addresses of the account holders. Just because a creditor reports information to the credit bureau does not mean the information is correct. As a consumer, it is your responsibility to review your credit reports to ensure information is accurately reported.
Reviewing Names
If one creditor reports a name associated with your Social Security number, that name is placed at the top of the credit report in the personal information. This can be similar names, misspelled variations of your name, maiden names, and married names. In some cases, the creditor may have made an error and reported an entirely unrelated name associated with your credit report. You may also find names of joint account holders listed on your credit report. This can be a parent, spouse, partner or friend -- anyone you have opened an account with. Finally be aware that there are cases where identity theft has occurred. Someone may be using a name associated with your Social Security number. Follow up with each credit bureau immediately if you suspect identity theft.
How to Fix Names?
In your copy of your credit report, you will find an address, website or phone number where you can file a dispute. Contact the credit bureaus by your preferred method. Inform the credit bureau that you have found inaccurate information on your credit report and request that the names be deleted or corrected. The credit bureau may request you send proof of your correct name to make changes.
Credit Score
Personal information on your credit report does not affect your credit score in anyway. It is still important to have your credit report reflect your current name with correct spelling. Any names listed on your credit report that do not belong should be removed. If someone has used your Social Security number to obtain credit and this is why another name is showing, your credit can definitely be impacted. You must contact the credit bureaus immediately to resolve this issue.
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