How can I prevent errors on my credit reports?

While it may not always be possible to prevent errors, reviewing your credit reports regularly is an important step to help ensure your information is accurate and complete. 

You can get a free copy of your credit reports every 12 months from Equifax, Experian and TransUnion by visiting www.annualcreditreport.com. You can also create a myEquifax account to get six free Equifax credit reports per year. In addition, you can click “Get my free credit score” on your myEquifax dashboard to enroll in Equifax Core Credit™ for a free monthly Equifax credit report and VantageScore credit score. A VantageScore is one of many types of credit scores.

When you’re applying for credit, provide as much personal identification as possible on the credit application. If you prefer to go by a nickname, be sure to stay consistent, but be aware that the more name variations in your credit report, the more likely errors may occur.

Make sure your creditors have your current and complete address information.
 
In addition, examine your bills and statements carefully to make sure you recognize the charges and any balances shown are correct.

If you see information you believe is inaccurate or incomplete, contact the lender or creditor. You can also file a free dispute with the credit bureau that provided the report. You will need to dispute the information separately with each credit bureau that is reporting the information. Please click here for more information on how to dispute.