#10 – FOLLOW THE CREDIT BUREAUS’ DISPUTE GUIDELINES

If you find incorrect personal information on your credit reports, it could signify that an identity thief has updated your information behind your back, or it could just be a mistake made by the credit bureaus. Mixed credit files (i.e. when your report gets intertwined with someone else’s due to name or Social Security similarities) are actually quite common. Visit the credit bureaus’ websites to follow their dispute guidelines. Make sure you submit your dispute in writing via certified mail, return receipt requested. As of the date we published this workbook, the bureaus must legally investigate and resolve your complaint within 30 days (or 45 days if you received your report from www.annualcreditreport.com).