Consumer guide
Know your credit rights.
A practical overview of common credit reporting and debt collection problems.
Credit reporting errors
Credit reports may contain inaccurate account ownership, balances, payment histories, dates, or account statuses. A strong dispute clearly identifies each error, explains why it is wrong, and includes supporting records.
Useful records
Current reports from each bureau, account statements, payment confirmations, prior disputes, delivery receipts, responses, and denial or adverse-action notices.
Identity theft accounts
Fraud-related reporting may require an identity theft report, proof of identity, account-specific documents, and written notices to furnishers and reporting agencies. Track every account separately.
Debt collection conduct
Consumers may have rights when a collector uses deceptive, harassing, or unfair practices. Save letters, voicemails, call logs, text messages, emails, and payment records.
Mixed or merged files
A mixed file can occur when one person’s information is placed in another person’s credit report. Similar names, addresses, or identifiers can contribute to the problem. These cases often depend on repeated, well-documented notice.