A totally free credit report contains most of your important financial information. And
this information is used to judge whether you get credit, a job or a promotion, or how much
you pay for insurance. But a study done by the United States Public Interest Research Group
showed that an alarming 70% of the credit reports had at least one error. Which means that
your totally free credit report gives you not only a check on your credit, but also a check on
the accuracy of your credit information.
To keep the information in your totally free credit report accurate, you need to
know how to dispute any omissions or errors. And when you get your credit report, keep
in mind that the three major credit bureaus Equifax, Experian and TransUnion, don't have the
same sources of information, so each report can be different. That's why it's good to check all
three versions of your credit report at least once a year.
If you find an inaccuracy in your totally free credit report, write the credit bureau about the
item. Include copies of any supporting documents and send the letter by certified mail, return
receipt requested. Although it's not required, it's also a good idea to write the creditor
responsible for the information in dispute.
After getting your letter the credit bureau must verify the information in your totally
free credit report, usually within 30 days, or remove or correct it. After the bureau
completes its investigation it must send you its conclusion. If the item is found to be in
error it will be corrected and the bureau will send you a free copy of your corrected credit
report. The credit bureau is also required to notify all nationwide consumer reporting agencies
of the error. And if you request it, the bureau will notify anyone of the correction who received
a copy of your credit report in the previous six months or two years if it was an employer.
If you're unsatisfied with the resolution of the disputed item from your totally free credit
report, then you have the right to make a 100-word summary of you viewpoint. This statement
will be included in future copies of your credit report. And if any disputed information is later
verified and reinserted in your report, the credit bureau must notify you of the change.
To get your totally free credit report and free 30 days of credit monitoring, please go to
free instant credit reports.
