# How to Dispute Mistakes On Your Credit Report
Errors on your credit report can tank your score and make lenders reject your loan applications. The good news: you have the legal right to challenge inaccuracies.
Start by obtaining your credit report from all three bureaus. Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion each maintain separate files on you, and mistakes appear on one bureau but not others. Grab free copies annually at AnnualCreditReport.com, the official government site.
Review your report carefully. Look for accounts you don't recognize, incorrect payment history, wrong balances, or duplicate entries. Note the exact errors and gather supporting documents. If a creditor reported a late payment you made on time, find your bank statement or payment confirmation.
File a dispute directly with the credit bureau reporting the error. You can dispute online, by mail, or by phone. The Fair Credit Reporting Act requires bureaus to investigate disputes within 30 days. Submit your evidence along with a clear explanation of what's wrong. The bureau must contact the creditor to verify the information.
If the bureau confirms the error, they remove it free of charge. If they reject your dispute, send a written statement to be added to your report explaining your position.
For persistent problems, consider filing a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). This federal agency investigates violations and can pressure bureaus to correct records.
Some errors stem from identity theft or fraud. If you spot unfamiliar accounts, place a fraud alert with all three bureaus and consider a credit freeze to prevent new accounts opened in your name.
Disputing takes effort but works. Many people successfully remove errors and see score improvements within weeks. Don't accept false information dragging down your creditworthiness. Take action now.