You can review your credit reports for free annually and dispute any errors you find directly with the credit bureaus or the businesses that supplied the information.
Your credit reports contain important financial information, and errors can affect your ability to get loans or credit. You are entitled to a free credit report from each of the three major bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) once every 12 months via AnnualCreditReport.com. Carefully review each section for inaccuracies, such as incorrect personal information, accounts you don't recognize, or wrong payment statuses. If you find an error, you can dispute it online, by mail, or by phone with the credit bureau. They are required to investigate your claim.
While disputing errors can help correct your credit report, it does not guarantee a specific credit score increase or loan approval.
What services do credit repair companies typically offer besides disputing errors?
Beyond disputing inaccuracies, reputable credit repair companies may offer credit monitoring, budgeting advice, and guidance on responsible credit management. Some services help negotiate with creditors on your behalf for settlements or payment plans, though this is not always included and may incur additional fees. They can also help you understand your credit score factors and provide strategies to build positive credit history over time. It's important to clarify exactly which services are included in their package and what additional costs might be involved, as offerings can vary significantly between providers.