Get a free copy of your credit report from all three major credit bureaus
Review each report carefully for errors, outdated information, or accounts you do not recognize
Gather supporting documents such as statements, payment records, identity theft reports, or account correspondence
Identify the specific items you want to dispute
File a dispute with the credit bureau reporting the error
Submit your dispute online, by mail, or by phone if allowed
Include your name, address, account number, the item in question, and why it is inaccurate
Attach copies of your supporting documents
Keep copies of everything you send
Send disputes to the creditor or lender reporting the information as well
Track the dispute status and save confirmation numbers or receipts
Wait for the investigation to be completed
Review the results and confirm whether the item was corrected, updated, or removed
If the dispute is denied, submit additional evidence or escalate the issue
Add a consumer statement to your credit report if the item remains unresolved