# How to Dispute Mistakes On Your Credit Report
Errors on your credit report can tank your score and cost you thousands in higher interest rates. You have the power to fix them.
Start by obtaining your credit report from all three bureaus. AnnualCreditReport.com provides free reports from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion once yearly. Review each report carefully for inaccuracies like accounts you never opened, incorrect payment histories, or fraudulent charges.
Found a mistake? Contact the credit bureau in writing. Provide specific details about the error and include supporting documentation. The Fair Credit Reporting Act requires bureaus to investigate your dispute within 30 days. They must correct or remove inaccurate information.
Also notify the creditor who reported the error. Send them a certified letter explaining the mistake and requesting correction.
Keep detailed records of all correspondence. Use certified mail for proof of delivery. If the bureau doesn't resolve the issue, file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
Disputing takes effort but works. Removing one incorrect negative item can raise your score by 50 points or more. That boost opens doors to better loan rates and lower insurance premiums. Monitor your reports annually to catch errors early.