How to Appeal a Credit Report

A credit report can contain incorrect credit information for any number of reasons. You can appeal credit information that you believe is incorrect. The process takes some time to allow for a full investigation. Based on the findings of that investigation, the credit reporting bureau to which you report the item will make a decision regarding the merit of your claims.

Instructions

1

Order your free credit report. Phone, mail and Internet orders are accepted. Charges do not apply; however, you are only eligible to receive one free copy of your credit report from each credit agency per year. Additional credit reports are also available through TransUnion, Experian and Equifax for a fee.

Annual Credit Report Request Service

P.O. Box 105281

Atlanta, GA 30348-5281

877-322-8228

AnnualCreditReport.com

2

Write a letter appealing information you think is inaccurate. Address your letter to the credit reporting company reporting the information. Be specific and provide the facts related to each charge. Request an investigation and ask that each charge be promptly removed or corrected. Verify your identity with your full legal name and current address.

3

Provide supporting documents, such as copies of receipts, invoices, or mail correspondence from a merchant or creditor related to the information on appeal. Provide a copy of the credit report documenting the charges in dispute. Notate the items by circling or highlighting each charge.

4

Track your appeal using a "return receipt" service (fees apply). The Federal Trade Commission strongly encourages consumers to send appeals via certified mail.

5

Review the investigation report, which, in some cases, can be processed within 30 days, and your corrected credit report. Look for the appealed charges to be changed or deleted, along with any statements about the appeal including the name, address, and phone number of the person or company that provided the information.