Start with the identifying information
Review every name, address, phone number, employer, and other identifying detail. A misspelling may be harmless, but unfamiliar information can also indicate a mixed file or identity theft.
- Mark information that is not yours.
- Do not assume an old address is fraudulent simply because you no longer live there.
- Compare all three nationwide reports because they may not contain identical information.
Review each account as a complete record
For every account, compare the creditor name, account type, responsibility, open date, balance, credit limit, payment status, and payment history with your own records.
- Look for accounts you did not open.
- Check whether an authorized-user or joint account is labeled correctly.
- Compare reported late payments with statements and bank records.
Separate unfavorable information from inaccurate information
Accurate negative information generally cannot be removed simply because it hurts a score. A dispute should identify a specific fact that is inaccurate, incomplete, unauthorized, or not yours and explain why.
- Circle the exact item, not an entire page.
- Keep originals and send copies of supporting documents.
- Write down the date you discovered each issue.
Official sources
Review the current government sources before acting because requirements and contact information can change.
CFPB: Credit reports and scores AnnualCreditReport.com