An often overlooked reason to request a free credit report is to check for errors. It's tough
enough to maintain good credit without having mistakes in you credit report. Surveys
have shown that about 50% to 70% of credit reports have errors. But if you find any errors
after you request a free credit report, there are well-defined rights that you can exercise to
correct them.
If you request a free credit report and find an error or omission, you should write the
credit bureau explaining why you think it's in error. Send along copies of any documents
which support your position. The bureau is required to investigate any non-frivolous claims,
normally within 30 days of being notified. They'll contact the source of the information
to verify the item's accuracy.
If the supplier of the disputed information fails to verify it within the time allowed, the
item is removed. The bureau must give you a written report of its investigation. And if the
report was found to be in error, the credit bureau must send you a free copy of the corrected
report. Additionally, when you request a free credit report that has an error, the supplier of
the item in error must notify the other national credit bureaus of the change to your credit
information.
If the disputed information is verified outside the normal 30 day limit, it may be put back
in your credit file and show up when you next request a free credit report. If this happens, you
must be notified of its reinsertion and told the name, address and telephone number of the
information supplier.
If the resolution of the disputed information is not to your satisfaction, you have the
right to a 100-word explanation of your dispute put in your credit report. If the resolution
results in a change to your report, you have the right to have the report sent to whoever
requested it within the last six months or the last two years if it was an employer.
To request a free credit report and get free 30 days of credit monitoring, please go to
free instant credit reports.
