Fix Credit Report Errors

Unfortunately, chances are there are errors on your credit report that are significant enough to hurt your credit in a way that would not allow you to get a favorable loan. That means your inaccurate credit score could cost you the ability to get an auto loan, rent an apartment, or even get a job. Studies show that 1 in 4 credit reports have false information, but there are ways to quickly fix credit report errors.

The first step is obvious. Get a copy of your credit report. By law, the three credit reporting agencies are required to give you one free copy of your report once a year. You can elect to receive a copy from all three agencies at once, or obtain one report at a time. If you have not reviewed your credit report in over a year, it’s recommended to request them all at once since some information can be listed on one report but not the other. You can always purchase a copy of your credit report later if needed.

Once you receive your credit report, you simply want to look for errors, particularly the negative errors. Look for:

* Open accounts that are not yours
* Notices of delinquent payments that have been on time
* The same loan or credit card listed twice
* The absence of a loan or credit card

You also want to double check that your name, birth date, current address and social security number is accurate. Otherwise information from someone else with a similar name could be confused with yours. Some wrong information, however, is not necessarily a big deal. The use of "street" versus "road" in your personal address, for example, or the correct spelling of your previous employer. These types of things will not affect your credit score and does not really make it any easier for an identity thief to steal your information.

If you find an error, notify the credit agency immediately. They are required by law to contact the lender/creditor and within 30 days.

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