How to Remove False Credit Information

Keeping track of your credit report is more important than ever. Credit scores are used for everything from buying a car to getting a job. The accepted validity of the three major reporting agencies also means the burden of proof falls on you. To remove false credit information, thoroughly check all your credit reports, contest any bad information and contact the reporting companies.

Instructions

1

Order a copy of all your credit reports. If you find false information on your credit report, the first thing to do is find out if this information is on all your reports. There are three main credit reporting agencies: Experian, TransUnion and Equifax. You are entitled to one free credit report per year by law by going to the official free credit report website (see Resources).

2

Dispute the information. Each credit reporting agency has a process by which you can dispute the information on your report. The process involves selecting the particular item, choosing a reason why you believe it is inaccurate and providing additional facts to back your case. The agency will contact the source of the item to verify its accuracy.

3

Contact the source of the false information. While the credit reporting agency is required to verify the info, you should make an effort to contact the company reporting the item to make sure it is removed from their records. The credit reporting agency might remove the item from your report only to have it reported again by a unscrupulous collections company. The name of the reporting company and their contact information should be included next to the erroneous item on your report. Follow the company's dispute process to have the item removed.

4

Check your credit reports after 30 days. Each credit reporting agency should notify you when the results of your dispute investigation are completed. Review your credit reports to verify that the item has been removed.