How to Remove a Duplicate Credit Report Entry

The credit report has become central to life in the United States. The information held on this report can either help or hinder you in getting a job, car, apartment, mortgage, credit card, loan or more. Having duplicate entries on a credit report is a common error and is usually due to credit sources reporting slightly varied information to the credit reporting agency. When this happens, a duplicate entry may appear. It is possible to have duplicate entries removed or consolidated in a few simple steps.

Instructions

1

Order and examine your credit report. You may do this from one agency or you may choose a comprehensive report from all three U.S. credit reporting agencies: Experian, Equifax, and Trans Union. Ordering a credit report may be done online (see Resources section) or by telephoning one of the credit reporting agencies.

2

Note any possible duplicate entries. Compare the information provided, such as date the account was opened, the name on the account and account numbers. Verify that the account is a duplicate, and gather any information you have regarding the account such as statements or bills.

3

Dispute the information. This can be done online at the credit reporting agency's website--each agency now has this feature available--or by telephoning the agency. The information for disputes can be found on your credit report and will vary depending upon the agency.

4

Submit any additional information necessary. The credit reporting agency may ask you to submit additional documentation such as bills or statements for the account, proof of address or proof of identity.