Quick answer
- Start with the credit bureau that shows the error: Equifax, Experian and/or TransUnion (CFPB).
- Disputing is free. Equifax and Experian both say you can file for free online (Equifax, Experian).
- Explain what’s wrong and why, and include copies of documents that back you up (CFPB).
- You can also dispute with the company that supplied the information, such as your bank or lender (CFPB).
Step 1: Dispute with the credit bureau
If you find an error, the CFPB says to start by disputing it with the credit reporting company. “Explain in writing what you think is wrong, why, and include copies of documents that support your dispute” (CFPB).
If you mail a dispute, the CFPB says your letter should include your full contact details, each item you dispute and why, a copy of the report with the items circled or highlighted, and copies (not originals) of supporting documents. You can send it by certified mail with a return receipt so you have a record (CFPB). The CFPB also offers instructions and a template letter.
How to contact each bureau
| Bureau | Dispute online |
|---|---|
| Equifax | Equifax dispute page |
| Experian | Experian dispute page |
| TransUnion | TransUnion dispute page |
To dispute by phone or mail, use the contact details on your credit report. Links checked Oct 30, 2026.
Keep copies of your letter and documents (CFPB).
What happens next
The bureau must investigate, forward your dispute and the information you sent to the company that supplied the data, and report the results back to you (CFPB). Equifax says you’ll get its results “within 30 days” (Equifax).
A bureau doesn’t have to investigate a dispute it reasonably decides is frivolous or irrelevant, such as one that doesn’t say what’s being disputed. If so, it must tell you why within five business days of deciding (CFPB).
Step 2: Dispute with the company that supplied the information
Bureaus get data from “furnishers”, such as your bank, landlord or credit card company. You can dispute with the furnisher in writing, by certified mail, at the address on your report or one it names for disputes. Furnishers generally must investigate and respond within 30 days of receiving it. If the information was wrong or can’t be verified, the furnisher must update or remove it and notify all the credit reporting companies (CFPB).
If you disagree with the result
Experian says you can contact the furnisher, add a statement of dispute that shows on your Experian report when lenders see it, or dispute again with new supporting documents (Experian).
You don’t need to pay anyone to file a dispute. You can do it yourself, for free, directly with the bureaus.
Related guides
General information, not financial advice.
Sources
- How do I dispute an error on my credit report?, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (accessed October 30, 2026)
- Credit Disputes, Equifax (accessed October 30, 2026)
- Dispute Credit Report Information, Experian (accessed October 30, 2026)
- Dispute your credit, TransUnion (accessed October 30, 2026)
General information only; not financial, legal or tax advice. Moneysilk is not a lender and does not make credit decisions. Read our editorial standards and corrections policy.