What if I believe my credit report is inaccurate?

A consumer has a right to dispute inaccurate information on his or her credit report.   Once a dispute has been received,   the credit reporting company is required to investigate the information within a reasonable period of time. It is not unusual for an investigation to take at least four to six weeks.   If the agency is unable to verify the information, it should be deleted. If the information is verified but the consumer continues to dispute the information, a brief statement may be prepared which explains the dispute.   The agency must make this explanation part of the consumer’s file.   Adverse information (that is correct) may remain on a report for seven years. Bankruptcies may remain on a report for ten years. Inquiries generally stay on for two years.