Why this matters

An error on your credit report can cost you money in higher interest rates, cause you to be denied for loans or housing, or even affect job opportunities. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) gives you the right to have accurate, complete, and timely information in your credit files.

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Step 1: Get your credit reports

• Request free reports from AnnualCreditReport.com — the only official site mandated by law.

• Pull reports from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.

• Also check specialty reports (tenant screening, employment background checks, check verification, etc.) through the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s list.

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Step 2: Identify errors

Look for:

• Accounts you don’t recognize (possible identity theft or mixed file)

• Incorrect balances or limits

• Late payments you actually made on time

• Debts listed twice

• Outdated negative information (generally older than 7 years, bankruptcies older than 10)

• Credit inquiries you didn’t authorize

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Step 3: Gather your evidence

Collect:

• Statements showing the correct information

• Payment confirmations

• Letters or emails from creditors

• Police or FTC identity theft reports (if applicable)

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Step 4: Dispute in writing

1. Send a dispute letter to each credit bureau reporting the error.

2. Include:

   • Your identifying information (full name, address, date of birth, last 4 digits of SSN)

   • The account name/number in dispute

   • Why the information is wrong

   • Copies (never originals) of supporting documents

3. Keep a copy of your letter and proof of delivery.

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Sample Letter Outline

Subject: FCRA Dispute – [Your Name]
I am writing to dispute the following information in my credit file:
[Creditor Name], Account #XXXX – This account shows a 60-day late payment in March 2024, but my bank records show payment was made on time.
Enclosed are copies of [describe documents].
Please investigate under 15 U.S.C. § 1681i and correct or delete this information.

Sincerely,
[Your Name & Signature]

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Step 5: Wait for the investigation

• The bureau must investigate within 30 days (45 if you send more documents during the process).

• They must send you results in writing and a free copy of your updated report.

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Step 6: Review results

• If the error is corrected — great!

• If it remains and you disagree:

  • Add a statement of dispute to your file

  • File a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)

  • Contact an attorney experienced in FCRA cases

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Step 7: Understand your legal options

If the bureau or creditor fails to investigate properly, keeps reporting false information, or accesses your credit without permission, you may have the right to sue. Remedies can include:

• Correction of the error

• Actual damages (financial loss, emotional distress)

• Statutory damages for willful violations

• Attorney’s fees and costs

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Tips for success

• Dispute with each bureau separately — they don’t share disputes.

• Be clear, concise, and factual — avoid emotional language.

• Keep a dispute log with dates, letters, and responses.

• Always send by certified mail with return receipt.

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Need help?

If your dispute hits a dead end or you believe your FCRA rights have been violated, our firm can review your case and explain your options.

If you are looking for assistance with the initial dispute process, we can also refer you to a third-party service provider, ScoreBooster Pro, Inc. for credit repair assistance.  Please visit www.scoreboosterpro.com.

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Important Disclosure Regarding ScoreBooster Pro, Inc.

Ginsburg Law Group, LLC recommends certain third-party service providers that may assist clients with credit reporting issues and debt repair strategies. One such company is ScoreBooster Pro.

Please be advised that Attorney Amy Ginsburg has an ownership interest in ScoreBooster Pro. As a result, Ginsburg Law Group may derive financial benefit from services provided by ScoreBooster Pro.

You are under no obligation to use ScoreBooster Pro or any other recommended service provider. You are free to select any company or professional of your choosing. Your decision whether or not to use ScoreBooster Pro will not affect your representation by Ginsburg Law Group.

ScoreBooster Pro is a separate legal entity and operates independently from Ginsburg Law Group. Services provided by ScoreBooster Pro are not legal services, and engaging ScoreBooster Pro does not create an attorney-client relationship with Ginsburg Law Group unless you separately retain the firm under a written engagement agreement.

While we believe ScoreBooster Pro provides valuable services, no guarantees or representations are made regarding specific credit score increases, debt elimination results, or financial outcomes. Results vary based on individual circumstances.

Any testimonials or statements regarding results are examples only and do not constitute a guarantee of similar outcomes.

If you have questions about this disclosure or would like referrals to alternative providers, please contact our office.