# How to Dispute Mistakes On Your Credit Report
Errors on your credit report can tank your score and cost you money in higher interest rates. The good news: you have legal rights to challenge inaccurate information, and the process is straightforward.
Start by pulling your credit report from all three bureaus. Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion each maintain separate files, and mistakes appear on one bureau but not others. Get your free annual reports at AnnualCreditReport.com, the only officially authorized source. Review every account, balance, and payment status closely.
When you spot an error, file a dispute immediately. Send a written dispute letter to the bureau that reported the mistake. Be specific about what's wrong. Say "this account shows a late payment in March 2023, but I paid on time" rather than vague complaints. Include copies of supporting documents like bank statements or payment confirmations, but keep originals for yourself.
Mail your dispute certified with return receipt requested. The law requires credit bureaus to investigate within 30 days. They contact the creditor who reported the error. If the creditor can't verify the information, the bureau must remove it.
Many disputes succeed without extra steps. But if a bureau rejects your claim, escalate. Send a second letter restating your case with additional evidence. Document everything in writing. Phone calls don't create a paper trail that helps you later.
For serious errors tied to fraud or identity theft, file a report with the Federal Trade Commission at IdentityTheft.gov. This creates an official record and may trigger additional protections.
If a bureau ignores your dispute or refuses to remove incorrect information after investigation, you can sue under the Fair Credit Reporting Act. You don't need to prove the information is wrong. The bureau must prove it's accurate. Courts award damages for negligence and willful