How to Write a Credit Dispute Letter
Errors on your credit report can hurt your chances of establishing credit, getting a bank loan, and getting hired for a job. To correct your report, write an effective dispute letter.
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You Will Need
- Original documents
- A copy machine
- Your letter
- A post office return receipt
Steps
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Step 1
Make copies of credit report and related documents
Make copies of your credit report and all support documents, such as payment records, cancelled checks, and court documents.
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Do not enclose original documents with your credit dispute letter. They can get lost.
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Step 2
Start letter with your contact information
Start your credit report dispute letter with your contact information, including your complete name and address, e-mail address, and your social security number.
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Step 3
Include consumer reporting company’s contact info
Include a paragraph with the name and address of the consumer reporting agency's complaint department or the name and address of the creditor that provided the incorrect information on your credit report.
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There are three nationwide consumer reporting companies: Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax.
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Step 4
Clearly describe each incorrect credit report item
LIst and clearly describe each incorrect item in the credit report. For example, "Item #1: I dispute XYZ Bank. My account number is 12345. I have never been late on this account."
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Circle all disputed information on the enclosed copies of your credit report.
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Step 5
Request disputed items be corrected or removed
Request that the consumer reporting company or creditor entity correct or remove the disputed items from the credit report.
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Step 6
Send letters by certified mail with return receipt
Go to the post office and send the credit dispute letters by certified mail with a return receipt request. This serves as a means to track the letters.
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The Fair Credit Reporting Act requires that each of the national consumer reporting companies provide you with a free credit report once every 12 months upon your request.
