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Dispute Credit Report Errors

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# Dispute Credit Report Errors
This procedure walks through the steps necessary to identify and dispute any errors found on your credit report. This process helps maintain accuracy and prevent potential negative impacts on your credit score.

### Step 1: Obtain Report
Request a free copy of your credit report from each of the major credit bureaus. You are entitled to one free report from each bureau once every 12 months through AnnualCreditReport.com.

### Step 2: Review Report
Carefully review your credit reports for any inaccuracies or errors. Pay particular attention to your personal information, credit accounts, credit inquiries, and public records.

### Step 3: Document Errors
If you find errors, gather any documents that support your case. This could include bank statements, payment confirmations, court documents, or letters from creditors.

### Step 4: Contact Creditors
If the error is related to a specific account, you can start by contacting the creditor directly to resolve the issue. Keep a record of your conversations and any agreements.

### Step 5: Dispute with Bureaus
File a formal dispute with the credit bureau(s) that are showing the errors. Make sure to provide your complete personal information, clearly identify each error, and include any supporting documentation.

### Step 6: Track Progress
After you file the dispute, track the progress of your claim. The credit bureau usually has 30 days to investigate and respond to your dispute.

### Step 7: Review Response
Once the credit bureau responds, review the outcome of the investigation. If the dispute is resolved in your favor, the error will be corrected. If not, you may need to provide additional information and continue corresponding.

### Step 8: Confirm Corrections
If corrections are made, request a new copy of your credit report to ensure that all changes have been accurately reflected. Keep these updated documents for your records.

## General Notes

### Timing
You have the right to dispute any errors, free of charge, at any time. However, frequent checks are advised to promptly catch and correct any errors.

### Documentation
Always keep copies of all correspondence, including emails and letters, as well as documentation about the disputed error(s). This will be crucial if there are any follow-up issues or if the error reappears on your report.

### Follow-up
If the initial dispute process does not resolve the issue, you can escalate to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau or seek legal advice for further assistance.