While you’re allowed to dispute credit report errors online, you may prefer to do so by mail. Writing a letter to dispute credit report information gives you a record of your dispute that you can use if you later have to file a lawsuit against the credit bureau. For example, you may be able to sue a collector who fails to update your credit report or who does not correct your information within the time frame outlined in the Fair Credit Reporting Act. Don’t worry if you’re not quite sure about the best way to phrase a credit report dispute letter. We’ve included a sample credit report dispute letter that you can send to credit bureaus. Use it to request an update to, or removal of, inaccurate information on your credit report.
Where to Send Your Dispute Letter
Be sure you’re sending your dispute to the right credit bureau (whichever one issued the report you’re trying to correct). The addresses of each of the three major bureaus are: Complaint DepartmentName of CompanyCredit Bureau AddressCity, State, Zip Code Dear Sir or Madam: I recently obtained a copy of my credit report from your agency and found the following item to be in error: Item 1: I dispute the unpaid balance on [ABC credit card] account number [555111]. This account has been paid in full as of [date]. I am requesting that the item be [removed, updated, or other suggested change] to correct the information. Enclosed are copies of [use this statement if you have bank statements, canceled checks, or other documentation] supporting my position. Please investigate this matter and (delete or correct) the disputed item(s) as soon as possible. Sincerely, Your name Enclosures: [List the documents you are enclosing. If none, do not include this section]. Equifax Information Services LLCP.O. Box 740256Atlanta, GA 30374-0256 ExperianP.O. Box 4500Allen, TX 75013 TransUnion Consumer SolutionsP.O. Box 2000Chester, PA 19016-2000
Tips for Sending Your Credit Report Dispute
When you send a credit report dispute, make sure to keep a copy of the letter for your records. You can also include any proof you have that supports your dispute. For instance, you can send a copy of a cashed check or a statement from your lender proving that you actually made a payment on time. Send copies of your proof, and keep the originals for yourself. It can be helpful to include a copy of your credit report with the disputed information circled so the credit bureau can easily identify what you’re disputing. Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, credit bureaus typically have 30 days to investigate your dispute and respond to you. To track the time accurately, send your letter via certified mail. You’ll have proof of the date you mailed the dispute letter, and you’ll be able to track the time when the credit bureau receives your letter. You might also consider sending the letter with a return receipt request. A representative from the credit bureau signs the return receipt, and it’s mailed back to you, giving you additional proof that your dispute letter was received.
