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How to Dispute a Credit Report Inaccuracy

Contesting an inaccuracy on your credit report may seem like David fighting Goliath, but the result - a clean and accurate credit history - is worth the battle. Here’s how you do it.

Steps:

1. Request a copy of your credit report from one of the major credit bureau companies or another provider. These are all typically accessible through the Internet.
2. Read the report carefully. Highlight any items you don’t recognize or that appear to be incorrect.
3. Call the credit bureau company reporting the information in question. It will provide you with the appropriate credit card company phone numbers.
4. Call the credit card companies and ask them to research the situation. If they made an error, request that they send a written correction to the major credit bureau companies and a copy to you as well.
5. You can write your side of the story and ask that it be posted on your credit report, if the credit card company is unwilling to correct the reporting on your credit bureau.
6. Request a copy of your credit report annually to keep on top of the situation.

Tips:

• Meet with a credit counseling agency if you have serious concerns about your credit report or about managing your credit in general.
• Purchase a car on credit financed through the dealership to build back credit. Be sure to make your payments on time.
• Apply for a secured credit card and make regular payments.

Warnings:

• A negative mark on your credit report due to bankruptcy or foreclosure could remain for 7 to 10 years.
• Secured credit cards often carry higher interest rates and membership fees.

Finance 2005-11-21 Home Business Tips