Dispute inaccurate closed accounts with each credit bureau
Request a reinvestigation if the account is reporting incorrect details
Contact the creditor to correct or update any reporting errors
Ask for removal of duplicate or mixed-file accounts
Challenge closed accounts that do not belong to you
Dispute accounts with incorrect balance, status, or dates
Send supporting documents with your dispute
File disputes online, by mail, or by phone with the bureaus
Follow up if the bureau does not respond within the required time
Request goodwill deletion from the creditor if the account is accurate but negative
Negotiate a pay-for-delete only if the creditor agrees in writing
Wait for accurate negative closed accounts to age off your report
Check all three credit reports for the same account
Keep records of every dispute and response
Use a credit repair attorney or consumer law firm for legal violations