Money & Debt

If you believe that you have inaccurate information on a credit report or background check, you can ask for the information to be removed. This includes if you're a victim of identity theft.

Begin by writing a letter to the company that is reporting false information about you. This could be one of the three major credit bureaus or a smaller specialized company.

In your letter, explain which information is incorrect. Include your full name, address, date of birth, and a clear description of each item you're disputing, and why it is inaccurate. For example, be clear if the accounts or charges resulted from identity theft.

Attach copies of any evidence you have that shows why the information is wrong. This would include your Identity Theft Report (which includes your FTC Identity Theft Affidavit and police report) and any proof of the fraudulent accounts.

Make a copy of your letters and all attachments for your records. Then send your dispute letters by certified mail with a return receipt to ensure you have proof that the bureaus received your correspondence. Companies are required to investigate your dispute, usually within 30 days. If they find the information is incorrect, they must correct or remove it and notify you in writing. They should also provide a free copy of your updated credit report if changes are made. Remember to keep copies of all letters and documents you send and receive during this process.

The contact information for the big three credit bureaus is as follows: 

• Equifax Information Services LLC, P.O. Box 740256, Atlanta, GA 30374
• Experian, P.O. Box 4500, Allen, TX 75013
• TransUnion Consumer Solutions, P.O. Box 2000, Chester, PA 19016-2000.

If they refuse to correct information after you go through this process, you should talk to a consumer advocate lawyer. You may have a case under the Fair Credit Reporting Act. Most lawyers take those cases on contingency, which means you do not need to pay your lawyer up front.