Short answer
If a dispute does not resolve an error, you have the right to add a brief statement of the dispute, which the bureau may limit to 100 words, and it must be noted in later reports. A statement does not correct or remove the item, so it usually supplements a dispute rather than replacing one.
What the law provides
- Right to file. If a reinvestigation does not resolve your dispute, you may file a brief statement setting out the nature of the dispute (15 U.S.C. § 1681i(b)).
- Length. The bureau may limit the statement to 100 words if it provides you with assistance in writing a clear summary.
- Later reports. In any later report containing the disputed information, the bureau must clearly note that it is disputed and provide your statement or a clear and accurate summary of it, unless it has reasonable grounds to believe the dispute is frivolous or irrelevant (§ 1681i(c)).
- Notice to past recipients. On request, the bureau must send the statement (or notice of a deletion) to anyone you designate who received your report in the past 2 years for employment or 6 months for any other purpose (§ 1681i(d)). The FTC notes the bureau may charge a fee for this.
The bureau’s results notice and any reinsertion notice must tell you about your right to add a statement (§ 1681i(a)(5)(B), (a)(6)(B)).
When a statement can help
- A lender, landlord, or employer reviewing your full report by hand may read it.
- It creates a record that you disputed the item.
- It can give context, such as a late payment during a documented hardship.
Limits to keep in mind
- A statement does not correct or delete the item.
- Keep it factual and short; it may be read by anyone who sees your report.
- Remove it when it is no longer needed, for example after the item is corrected.
Alternatives to try first
If the item is actually wrong, a statement is not the end of the road. You can dispute again with new documents, request the method of verification, and dispute directly with the company that reported it. See how to dispute credit report errors.
Related
Sources
- 15 U.S.C. § 1681i(b)–(d) — Statement of dispute and notification (Cornell LII)
- FTC — Disputing Errors on Your Credit Reports
- CFPB — How do I dispute an error on my credit report?
Updated November 2026. This page is general information, not legal advice.