Identify the entry, not just the score
Save the report containing the disputed information. Mark the particular account or entry and explain the factual error. A change in a credit score is not, by itself, an explanation of which reported information is inaccurate. The FTC’s FCRA materials describe obligations of consumer reporting agencies and companies that supply information. FTC: the Fair Credit Reporting Act
Understand the two roles
A credit reporting company maintains the report. A “furnisher” is the company supplying information, such as a lender. The CFPB recommends disputing an error with both the reporting company and the company that supplied it. Keep the issue specific and attach copies of supporting records; retain the originals. CFPB: how to dispute an error
Keep the dispute and the response together
Record what you disputed, when you submitted it, and any confirmation or delivery information. Keep each response with the original report. If a response does not address the problem, note the difference between what you asked and what the company actually investigated or explained.
Understand the general investigation window
The CFPB explains that credit reporting companies generally have 30 days to investigate, with certain circumstances allowing up to 45 days. Results generally must be provided within five business days after the investigation is completed. These are general rules; a particular timeline depends on the circumstances. CFPB: investigation timing
Know what a dispute can and cannot do
The dispute process addresses inaccurate or incomplete information. It is not a promise to remove accurate negative history or raise a credit score. If the problem remains, a legal review may examine the reporting history, your dispute, the investigation, and any resulting harm. If identity theft is involved, the federal government provides separate recovery guidance at IdentityTheft.gov.
This article is general information, not advice for your situation. It does not cover every exception, procedure, remedy, or deadline.
Official resource: CFPB: credit report disputes
Related practice area: Consumer Law