How to Repair Your Credit Report

Updated: October 2026. Rules change; confirm with a licensed lender.

1. Get your free reports

Go to AnnualCreditReport.com, the official site, and pull your Equifax, Experian and TransUnion reports.

2. Look for errors

Accounts you did not open, on-time payments marked late, wrong balances, duplicate debts or another person's information.

3. Dispute what is wrong

Dispute online or by letter with each bureau. Explain the error, attach copies of proof and keep records. Bureaus usually have about 30 days to investigate. You can also dispute with the company that reported it. See our sample dispute letter.

4. Pay on time

Payment history is the biggest factor in your score. Set up autopay for at least the minimum.

5. Lower card balances

Aim to use under 30% of each limit, under 10% if you can.

6. Handle collections carefully

Ask in writing for debt validation, negotiate in writing and keep the agreement. On very old debts, a payment can restart the statute of limitations in some states, so check your state's rules. Medical-debt reporting rules have changed, so check current ones.

7. Build positive history

Consider a secured card, a credit-builder loan from a credit union, or becoming an authorized user on a well-managed card. Some services report rent payments.

8. Avoid these mistakes

Don't close your oldest accounts and don't apply for new credit unnecessarily.

How long does it take?

Corrected errors can show up in weeks. Accurate negatives usually fall off after about seven years; some bankruptcies last up to ten.

Beware of scams

No one can remove accurate negative information. Avoid anyone who charges upfront fees, guarantees a score or offers a "new credit identity" or CPN: that is fraud. Federal law bars credit repair companies from charging before doing the work. For help, look for nonprofit credit counselors such as NFCC.org and file complaints at consumerfinance.gov.

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