How to File a Dispute with Credit Bureaus

If you discover information on your credit report that you believe is inaccurate, you can take the following steps to dispute and hopefully correct the information.

1 Highlight the errors on your credit report

2 Gather supporting documents that show your side of the story; for example, if you made a payment on time that shows as being delinquent, gather receipts and/or bank records showing that you made a payment on time.

3 Submit the information to the bureaus with a brief explanation.

All three bureaus have an online portal or dispute center where you can submit errors or inaccuracies on your credit report. Alternatively, you can call their customer service line:

Equifax®
Customer service number is 1-866-349-5191.

Experian®
Customer service number is 1-888-397-3742.

TransUnion
Customer service number is 1-800-916-8800.

After you submit your claim, you may need to wait 30 to 45 days before it’s resolved and the corrected information appears on your credit report. If the inquiry confirms that the information is accurate, the bureau or lender won’t change it.

If you still have questions after your claim is rejected and want to pursue your dispute further, you can file a complaint against the applicable bureau or lender with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau or with the Attorney General of your state.