Why Letters are the Best Way to Dispute Inaccurate Credit Report Information
As an attorney who disputes inaccurate information on credit reports and sues credit bureaus who fail to honor disputes, I often get asked about the best way to dispute such information. While there are several ways to dispute credit report errors, I always recommend using letters. In this article, I will explain why letters are the best way to dispute inaccurate credit report information, and provide some helpful tips on how to go about it.
Letters are Easy to Track
One of the main benefits of using letters to dispute credit report errors is that they are easy to track. When you send a letter, you can request a return receipt, which proves that the letter was received. This is important because if you need to take legal action later, you will need to show that you made an effort to dispute the error in question. Even though the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requires the bureaus to respond, they do not always do it. With a tracked letter, we can show they failed at the most basic aspect of their job.
Letters Allow You to Provide More Information
Another advantage of using letters to dispute credit report errors is that they allow you to provide more information. Unlike other ways of disputing, such as online disputes or phone calls, letters give you the space to explain the specific details of the error in question, and provide any supporting evidence you may have. When we help our clients send letters, we almost always include documents proving the bureaus are reporting inaccurate information.
Specificity is Key
When disputing credit report errors, specificity is key. The dispute must be specific and detailed, and writing a letter is the best way to achieve this. Its a good idea to say in your dispute letter what is happening because of the inaccurate information. For instance, if you have been turned down for a car note or mortgage, mention it in your letter. If this is your second dispute, then include your first with it and the dispute results you were sent in response to this dispute.
No Form Letter is Required
It’s important to note that a credit reporting agency is not permitted to condition a reinvestigation on the submission of a dispute on any form. This means that you do not need to and should not use a form letter to dispute inaccurate credit report information. Using a form letter can cause the credit bureaus to reject your dispute without even reading your letter, this hurts your chances of success.
There is No “Magic Language”
Many credit repair organizations claim to have a “magic language” that will get credit report errors removed quickly. YouTube “experts” talk about using this phrase or that. There is simply no such language. Using specific language is not necessary to dispute credit report errors, and using the words “609 Letter” will not affect the way a letter is processed. Just write your letter like you were writing to someone you know asking them to fix a problem.
Avoid Arbitration Agreements
Arbitration agreements can be a significant hurdle in disputing credit report errors. They are often embedded in the terms and conditions of submitting an online dispute, common credit monitoring apps, and they will limit your options for taking legal action later. Sending a letter to dispute credit report errors can help you avoid these agreements and allow you to take the credit bureaus to court.
Limitations of Letters
While letters are the best way to dispute inaccurate credit report information, they do have some limitations. They take time to write, you need to include additional information, and they are not free to send. However, the benefits of using letters far outweigh the costs.
ID Will Be Required
When disputing credit report errors, you will need to provide identification. Usually, a driver’s license and a recent utility bill are enough to confirm your identity.
Send a Letter to Each Bureau
Often, inaccurate information is only being reporting by one or two bureaus credit reports, so it’s essential to send a dispute letter to each bureau. Each credit reporting agency has its own dispute address, which you can easily find on their website. Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion all have unique addresses for dispute letters. You can not send one letter to one bureau and expect any other bureau to respond.
Our Office Can Help You Write Dispute Letters
If you need help disputing inaccurate credit report information, our office can help you write dispute letters at no cost whatsoever. As a consumer protection lawyer who sues credit bureaus, I understand the importance of having accurate credit reports, and I am dedicated to helping consumers correct errors on their credit reports.
Conclusion
Disputing inaccurate information on credit reports is essential for maintaining good credit. While there are several ways to dispute errors, using letters is the most effective way to achieve success. When disputing credit report errors, remember to be specific, provide as much information as possible, and send a letter to each credit reporting agency. While letters have some limitations, they are the best way to dispute inaccurate credit report information. If you need help, don’t hesitate to contact a credit dispute attorney. Check your credit reports regularly to ensure that they are accurate, and dispute any errors promptly. By taking these steps, you can protect your credit score and financial future.