Delving into the credit dispute process can feel like an overwhelming part of credit repair. It doesn’t help that each of the credit bureaus presents the dispute process information differently on their websites. In hopes of taking the intimidation factor out of their how-to instructions, this three-part series breaks it down for you. Here’s what Equifax has to say about it.
1) Equifax isn’t heavy-handed with promotion of the online dispute process
Unlike TransUnion and Experian, Equifax doesn’t beat you over the head with its online dispute process – a refreshing approach as most credit experts agree that you shouldn’t dispute online anyway. No matter which credit bureau you’re dealing with, go with the mail-in dispute option – certified mail with return receipt requested.
2) You should receive results of the investigation within 30 days
Upon receipt of your dispute, Equifax will investigate the matter with the data furnisher. The data furnisher is then tasked with investigating the accuracy of the information they have been reporting about you. Once Equifax hears back, they’ll let you know what the data furnisher found.
All of this, the credit bureau says, will take place within a month of receiving your dispute.
Note: If verified, the listing will remain as is. But if the data furnisher fails to verify the accuracy of the listing, it will be updated or deleted from your report.
3) If you disagree with the result, you have options
Equifax acknowledges that you can add a statement to your credit report telling your side of the story.
Of course, you can also dispute directly with the data furnisher, too. And if all else fails, you can submit a complaint to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB).
4) Check all of your reports for the error
If you find a mistake on your Equifax credit report, it could be on your other credit reports as well. Though Equifax says the other bureaus will eventually receive any updated information, they suggest contacting TransUnion and Experian directly to ensure prompt corrections.
5) Include your email address in your regular mail letter
When you dispute online, Equifax automatically sends you an email linking you to the results of their investigation. If you want that same convenience when disputing through the mail (instead of waiting on results getting mailed back to you), include your email address with your initial dispute letter.
Mailing Your Credit Dispute to Equifax
Mail your dispute (with supporting documents) to:
Equifax Information Services, LLC
P.O. Box 740256
Atlanta, GA 30374
(To make it easy on yourself, feel free to use our free sample dispute letter that you can tweak to your unique circumstances.)
Need to Deal With Other Credit Bureaus, Too?
Here’s what TransUnion and Experian have to say about the dispute process.
