If your credit needs fixing the first thing you need to do is order a free copy of your credit report. You can’t fix something if you don’t know it’s broken. Since there are three major credit reporting bureaus, you should receive three separate reports. Check each report for accuracy. Each one should contain the same information. The basics like your first and last name, your street address, your telephone number, your birth date, and your social security number. We often take these personal items for granted, but a clerical error in any one of these areas could mean big trouble for you. Wrong or misspelled names could lead to confusion, and possibly lead to damaging information being accidentally placed on your credit report.

Once you have received your reports and determined that you have errors on one or more of them you will need to contact the credit bureau(s) immediately. They will guide you through what documentation they need from you. This usually requires; verifying your name, address, birth date and social security number (again). This is necessary because the information you send in will need to match your credit report. If you know what the problem is you can write a letter and send in proof as well. Proof such as amounts paid or owed, and last statements showing new or reduced balances. It’s best that you send this letter registered, through your local post office.

Whatever documentation and communication you send to the credit bureau(s) make sure your creditor(s) receive the same information. It may be a good idea to try and fix your credit report with your creditor(s) first. Sometimes a few phone calls, and mailing in documented proof will clear up the matter. After several attempts and there is no change then you will need to follow up with the credit bureau. They have thirty days to reply to your written request, and they must investigate your claim within that time frame. They must also inform you of their findings. This is the law. Remember your credit report didn’t get messed up overnight, and it can’t be fixed overnight either. Follow up with the credit bureau every few weeks,to let them know how serious you are about fixing your credit rating. Remember all three of your credit reports should read the same, and by law, you are entitled to one free copy per year.

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