Include your identifying information, a copy of the report with each error marked, a short explanation of why each item is wrong, and copies (never originals) of any documents that prove it, such as statements, payoff letters, or court records.
What you send matters, because the bureau must forward all relevant information you provide to the company that reported the item (15 U.S.C. § 1681i(a)(2)) and must review and consider it (§ 1681i(a)(4)). A clear, documented dispute is harder to brush aside.
Identification
The FTC and CFPB recommend including:
- Full name (including any suffix such as Jr. or Sr.)
- Current address and, if you have moved recently, prior addresses
- Phone number and, if you have one, the report or confirmation number
Bureaus commonly ask for copies of a government ID and a proof of address (such as a utility bill) to confirm identity. Missing identification is a frequent reason a dispute is rejected.
The dispute itself
- A copy of the relevant part of your report with each error circled or highlighted.
- For each item: the creditor name, account number, what is wrong, and why.
- What you want done: correct or delete the item.
Supporting evidence (copies only)
Send copies, not originals. Examples by type of error:
- Wrong balance or late payment: bank statements, cancelled checks, payment confirmations, or a creditor letter.
- Paid or settled account: a payoff or settlement letter.
- Account is not yours: an identity theft report or proof you were not the account holder. See identity theft and your credit report.
- Discharged in bankruptcy: the discharge order and the schedule listing the debt.
- Public record error: the court docket or dismissal order.
Keep a record
Mail disputes by certified mail with a return receipt, as both the FTC and CFPB suggest, and keep a copy of everything you send. If you dispute online, save screenshots and confirmation numbers, and upload documents if the portal allows.
For a full walkthrough, see how to dispute credit report errors.
Related
Sources
- FTC — Disputing Errors on Your Credit Reports
- CFPB — How do I dispute an error on my credit report?
- 15 U.S.C. § 1681i(a)(2), (a)(4) — Forwarding and considering consumer information (Cornell LII)
Updated November 2026. This page is general information, not legal advice.