If there is a mistake on a credit report, the person should contact both the credit reporting agency (such as Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion) and the company that provided the incorrect information. The best way to contact them is by dispute, preferably in writing. The recommended steps for contacting are:
- Write a detailed letter explaining what information is incorrect and why, including copies (not originals) of documents that prove the mistake.
- Send the dispute by certified mail with a return receipt requested to have proof of receipt by the credit bureau.
- Include contact information, the credit report number, identification of the disputed items, a clear explanation, and a request for correction or removal.
- Optionally, disputes can be submitted online via each credit bureau’s dispute portal but mailing a letter is preferred to provide detailed evidence.
Addresses and contact information for the three major credit bureaus are:
Credit Bureau| Phone Number| Mailing Address| Online Dispute Link
---|---|---|---
Equifax| 888-378-4329| P.O. Box 740256, Atlanta, GA 30374|
[www.equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services/credit-
dispute/](http://www.equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services/credit-
dispute/)
TransUnion| 800-916-8800| TransUnion LLC Consumer Dispute Center, P.O. Box
2000, Chester, PA 19016| transunion.com/dispute
Experian| 888-397-3742| P.O. Box 4500, Allen, TX 75013| experian.com/dispute
After the dispute is received, the credit bureau generally has 30 days to investigate and respond. The bureau will also forward the evidence to the reporting company, which must investigate and report back. If the dispute results in a correction, the individual will receive the updated credit report for free.