How to Dispute Fraudulent Information on Your Credit Report
Mar 25, 2025
How to Dispute Fraudulent Information on Your Credit Report
You've worked hard to build and maintain your credit, and it deserves to be a true reflection of your financial journey. Since your credit report plays a major role in determining the cost of borrowing money, accuracy is vital. Here's how to ensure your credit report stays error-free and what to do if you spot any fraudulent information on your credit report.
Monitoring Your Credit Report Matters
Do you check your credit report often? It’s essential to stay vigilant against identity theft and inaccuracies. Luckily, the three major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—allow you to check your credit report for free at AnnualCreditReport.com.
Regularly reviewing your credit report ensures that all the information reflects your correct accounts, credit history, and personal details. If you uncover suspicious activity or errors, immediate action is crucial.
How to Dispute Fraudulent Information
If you suspect any fraudulent information on your credit report it is important to dispute, immediately. If you see a mistake on your credit report or suspect fraudulent information you should dispute with each credit bureau. Explain the credit bureaus in writing or whichever form of communication is preferred by the bureau. Here is how to reach them:
- Equifax (866) 349-5191
- Experian (888) 397-3742
- Transunion (800) 916-8800
These three credit bureaus have the options to dispute, just click on the type of credit bureau and follow their instructions on how to dispute any fraudulent items or mistakes on your credit report. After you submit any disputes to the credit bureau, the credit bureau must give you the results in writing and if they determine the results have a change on your credit report-they must provide a copy of your credit report.
To protect your credit moving forward, continue monitoring your reports regularly. If you encounter fraud, scams, or bad practices, make sure to report them to the proper authorities or the Federal Trade Commission here.