Many consumers assume if a debt appears on their credit report, it must be valid.
That’s not always true.
Here are ten violations people often overlook.
1. Failure to Mark an Account as Disputed
If you dispute a debt and it continues to report without a dispute notation, that may violate federal law.
2. Reporting the Wrong Balance
Inflated interest, unauthorized fees, or double reporting can be unlawful.
3. Reporting After Bankruptcy Discharge
Once a debt is discharged, it should not continue to show as collectible.
4. Re-Aging Old Debt
Changing the date of first delinquency to keep a debt on your report longer than allowed is illegal.
5. Duplicate Reporting
The same debt reported multiple times under different names can misrepresent your liability.
6. Reporting Without Proper Investigation
If you dispute and the furnisher rubber-stamps verification without review, that may be actionable.
7. Reporting Paid Debt as Unpaid
Once paid or settled, status must be updated accurately.
8. Failing to Correct Identity Theft Reporting
If you provide an identity theft affidavit and documentation, investigation must be meaningful.
9. Inconsistent Reporting Across Bureaus
If the same account reports differently across agencies, it may indicate inaccuracy.
10. Reporting Debts Past the 7-Year Limit
Most negative information must be removed after 7 years from the date of first delinquency.
The Bigger Picture
Credit reporting affects:
- Mortgage approvals
- Employment opportunities
- Rental housing
- Insurance rates
- Business loans
Because of that impact, accuracy is not optional — it is legally required.
If you dispute properly and errors remain, the law provides remedies.
