Disputing a Debt

Disputing a Debt requires that you write the collection agency within 30 days of receiving the first notice. You should inform them that you are disputing the debt in question and be sure to explain why you are doing so. You must be sure your letter is dated and properly addressed. Be sure to include the account number that is displayed on the notice. It would also be wise to keep a copy of all correspondence between you and the collection agency for your records.

If you know the information is inaccurate, call the creditor - the company that provided the information to the credit bureau - and explain that you believe they provided incorrect information about you to the credit bureau. Sometimes incorrect information can be traced to a mistake in that company's records. If all else fails, you are allowed by law to add a 100-word statement to your credit report.

You will want to make sure that you check your credit report a few months after you have been told that an item will be removed from your credit report.

Though a credit says they will correct the inaccuray, they don't always do it in a timely manner. You feed to follow up to ensure that they do.

It's time consuming and sometimes feels like an uphill battle, but is well worth it, in the long run.

Using certified mail is often the best way to correspond in these matters.

You may also dispute any credit report errors online at the websites of the 3 reporting agencies. You will need a copy of your credit report to dispute any items.