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As an American consumer, you will likely need to borrow money occasionally. Lenders keep track of the borrowing consumers do by creating a credit file, often called a credit report. You have the right to see the information on your credit report, but you have to request it correctly to gain that access.<\/p>\n\n

Credit Report Definition<\/h2>\n\n
A credit report is an electronic file containing a record of all your borrowing and that lenders have reported to the credit bureaus. Each of the three major consumer reporting companies collects this information to provide to other lenders or others who have the right or reason to access it often when making borrowing decisions.<\/p>\n\n
You can get a free credit report by visiting AnnualCreditReport.com<\/a>. You can also download and print a form to request a credit report.<\/p>\n\n

Information Contained on Your Credit Report<\/h2>\n\n
Your credit report contains a significant amount of information about your borrowing history. Some of the information contained on your credit report includes:<\/p>\n\n
\n\t
A list of all the businesses you have a loan with or that have given you access to credit.<\/li>\n\t
The total amount of each loan you have or the credit limit on your credit card accounts.<\/li>\n\t
Your payment history is documented, including whether you have paid your debt on time or had any missed or late payments over the past years.<\/li>\n\t
The amount of money you have repaid on your loans \u2013 how much you borrowed, how much you are paying as a minimum payment, and how much your high balance was.<\/li>\n\t
Credit inquiries are also listed. This is a list of businesses that have requested access to your credit report within the last two years.<\/li>\n\t
Your name, address, and any other personal identifying information, such as the name of your employers, both current and past.<\/li>\n\t
A list of your public records information, such as accounts in collections, disputes filed against you, and bankruptcies spanning the last 10 years, is also listed.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
Overview of the Three Major Credit Bureaus<\/h2>\n\n
The US has three major credit reporting agencies: Equifax, Experian, and Trans Union. Each of these three organizations has the job of collecting information about your credit use and maintaining that information. They do this for millions of people and businesses in the US.<\/p>\n\n
TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian do not develop the data they report but instead rely on your lenders to report it to you. They compile the data into a credit report, which is then used to create a credit score. That score is a number that represents how \"good\" your credit score is. The higher your score, the more proven your ability to make timely payments.<\/p>\n\n
Fair Credit Reporting Act Free Credit Report Requirements<\/h2>\n\n
The Fair Credit Reporting Act requires that credit bureaus provide consumers access to the information in their credit reports. That means providing at least one free copy of their credit report every 12 months. This can be requested through the AnnualCreditReport.com<\/a> website, which is the official and only government-authorized website to meet this requirement.<\/p>\n\n
Step-by-Step Guide on Getting a Report from Each Credit Bureau<\/h2>\n\n
You can get a copy of your credit report in several ways. For example, you can contact each credit bureau and pay for access. However, here's what to do to get a copy of your credit report through the free tool.<\/p>\n\n
\n\t
Visit AnnualCreditReport.com<\/a>. There, you must enter information about yourself to verify your identity.<\/li>\n\t
You will likely be asked some questions about accounts you've had in the past. This helps the site determine if you are who you say you are.<\/li>\n\t
You can then choose which one \u2013 or all three \u2013 credit reports to obtain. An excellent way to keep a constant eye on your credit file is to pull just one of the three credit bureau reports every four months. Most of the same information is contained in each.<\/li>\n\t
You will then be given access to all the information on your credit report. This will include much info about your credit use and history. Please read through it to verify that the information is accurate.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
If you want to pull another credit report from a different credit bureau, you can follow the same process (if you did not request all three simultaneously).<\/p>\n\n
Disputing Errors on Your Credit Report<\/h2>\n\n
What happens when you find an error on your credit report, though? When that happens, you have the right to dispute it. That means you will contact the credit bureau and inform them that you believe there's an error.<\/p>\n\n
You do this at the credit bureau's website. You can file a dispute through the tool at AnnualCreditReport.com<\/a> (click the link provided, and it will allow you to visit the right credit bureau's website to file the dispute.)<\/p>\n\n
The credit bureau then requires the lender to verify the information. If they cannot, the item is removed from your credit file. Do this as often as you believe there is inaccurate information, as even a tiny mistake could be costly in the long term for your credit history.<\/p>\n"},"library":"H5P.AdvancedText 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Text","license":"U","title":"Untitled Text"},"subContentId":"d1d58fc8-a065-4cdd-bff4-52703738752a"}}]},"library":"H5P.Column 1.16","subContentId":"966ed7f0-40bb-48bb-b306-34e7953e3ede","metadata":{"contentType":"Column","license":"U","title":"Getting Your Free Credit Report"}},{"params":{"content":[{"content":{"params":{"text":"
Your credit report is a valuable tool that you need to monitor on an ongoing basis. As you take the time to consider all the tools you use to manage your financial life, like your budget and credit cards, know that this one file can help or limit you in the future. The key is learning how to review and manage your credit file.<\/p>\n\n
Credit Report Overview<\/h2>\n\n
Your credit report contains a list of all the banks and other organizations that have lent you money or have inquired about your financial health. The information on your credit report comes from lenders, and though most of them are reliable, there are some situations where errors can occur. Those mistakes can be costly to you. That's why it is so essential for you to have the most up-to-date information on your credit report.<\/p>\n\n
What's Included in Your Credit Report<\/h2>\n\n
Your credit report will include a great deal of information about all the accounts you have or have had in the past. This includes:<\/p>\n\n
\n\t
Your name and identifying information.<\/li>\n\t
A list of all your accounts, past and present.<\/li>\n\t
Your payment history on those accounts, including if you missed or made a payment late.<\/li>\n\t
Your credit limit or the maximum amount you borrowed from the creditor.<\/li>\n\t
The type of credit it is, such as an installment loan or a mortgage<\/li>\n\t
A list of companies requesting information about your credit in a list called an inquiry.<\/li>\n\t
Credit discharges, like bankruptcy, as well as any judgments against you.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
Obtaining Your Credit Report<\/h2>\n\n
To obtain a free copy of your credit report, visit AnnualCreditReport.com<\/a>. It is the only government-backed website to use. You can get a free copy of your credit reports every 12 months.<\/p>\n\n
When you visit the site, input your personal information to verify your identity. You will then be able to choose to see one or all three of your credit reports. Once you do this, you should see your file online.<\/p>\n\n
Reading Each Section of Your Credit Report<\/h2>\n\n
With this information, scan through your report and look at each section. You'll want to spot any information that is not accurate.<\/p>\n\n
\n\t
Header and Identification: At the top of the file is your information, including your Social Security number, your name (and any misspellings of your name reported by the lenders), your address, old addresses you are known for, and the name of your employers. Verify that this information is correct.<\/li>\n\t
Public Record Data: The next section will contain any public records that are related to your credit report. This includes any tax liens, judgments, or bankruptcies filed against you that are noted in the public record.<\/li>\n\t
Collections Accounts: You'll see a section that lists any accounts that may be in collections, which means you have not made payments on time or as agreed to with the lender. Look to be sure these accounts are accurate, the amount due, and the account status.<\/li>\n\t
Credit Accounts: The next step is to verify all of the credit accounts listed. You'll likely have options listed here, including mortgages, car loans, and credit cards. It should list all your accounts, even those closed in good standing. It should list the amount you owe and your payment history for each one of these accounts. Keep in mind that the data could be 1 to 2 months behind. It should also list any information about the account, including if you've closed it or why it was closed if so.<\/li>\n\t
Inquiries: A list of inquiries is also provided. This is a list of businesses that have created a hard inquiry on your credit report, meaning they requested your private information to determine your credit history.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
Finding and Disputing Errors<\/h2>\n\n
After making notations of what is accurate and inaccurate on your credit report, you can move forward with disputing errors.<\/p>\n\n
If you see information that is not accurate, you will want to report that as such. Follow the steps provided by the website to dispute information. You will be taken to the credit bureau's website, where you can verify the information provided and then request a dispute.<\/p>\n\n
This means that the credit bureau will contact the lender and require the lender to provide proof that the information is accurate. They have to do this within 30 days.<\/p>\n\n
You can also file a dispute with the credit bureaus over the phone. To do that, call:<\/p>\n\n
\n\t
Transunion: 800-916-8800<\/li>\n\t
Experian: 888-397-3742<\/li>\n\t
Equifax: 866-349-5191<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
The credit bureaus will then determine if there is evidence to remove or maintain the information. Remember that the credit bureau must notify anyone who received your credit report in the last six months if they are removing negative information from the account.<\/p>\n\n
Protecting Your Credit from Fraud and Identity Theft<\/h2>\n\n
You don't want other people to gain access to the information on your credit report, and you have the right to limit access to it. If you do not wish to risk fraud or identity theft, put a freeze on your credit report, meaning lenders must get your permission before accessing this information.<\/p>\n\n
Keep your Social Security information secure and private. You also will want to contact the FTC if you suspect someone is using your identity in any way.<\/p>\n"},"library":"H5P.AdvancedText 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Text","license":"U","title":"Untitled Text"},"subContentId":"a3024df4-df90-45fc-9bc3-f2b200097354"},"useSeparator":"auto"}]},"library":"H5P.Column 1.16","subContentId":"03b27e91-de17-4c9c-800f-f6975fafb12c","metadata":{"contentType":"Column","license":"U","title":"Reviewing Your Credit Report"}},{"params":{"content":[{"content":{"params":{"text":"
It is not uncommon for an error to be present on your credit report. Yet, even a tiny mistake \u2013 such as a missing payment \u2013 can lead to a costly outcome for many people. The better option is to stay vigilant and monitor your credit reports continuously.<\/p>\n\n
Why Reviewing Your Report is Important<\/h2>\n\n
Reviewing your credit report is a necessary step in protecting your financial future. Most lenders use an automated process to report payments, and debt, which means a computer handles the communications. Yet, mistakes happen when data is not entered correctly. In addition, there is always the risk that information will be reported about someone else on your credit report. That can happen when someone has used your data to obtain credit or the wrong Social Security number was used. You need to know that inaccurate information is present on your credit report so that it is not hurting your score and your ability to obtain credit.<\/p>\n\n
Common Credit Report Errors<\/h2>\n\n
Any information that is not accurate should be reported to the credit bureaus. Some examples of common credit report errors include:<\/p>\n\n
\n\t
Inaccurate names, addresses, and employer information about you (misspellings are common, but wrong last names should not be ignored).<\/li>\n\t
Accounts that are not your own, including active and open or closed accounts.<\/li>\n\t
Information about payments on your account that is not accurate, such as a late or missing payment that you can prove was made on time.<\/li>\n\t
Inaccurate information about tax liens, disputes, bankruptcies, or other data.<\/li>\n\t
Inaccurate information about those accounts' credit limits and high balances.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
This type of data can be very harmful to your credit report.<\/p>\n\n
Step-by-Step Guide to Dispute Errors<\/h2>\n\n
There are several ways to dispute information on your credit report. You can go to the credit bureau's website and do so. Or you can mail a dispute letter to the credit bureaus to report this information. Here is the contact information you need: Transunion:<\/p>\n\n
\n\t
File a dispute online by clicking the \"start a dispute\" link.<\/a><\/li>\n\t
Or mail a form with a letter explaining the dispute to TransUnion LLC Consumer Dispute Center, P.O. Box 2000, Chester, PA 19016. Mail in the Request for Investigation form<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
Equifax:<\/p>\n\n
\n\t
Complete the Equifax dispute process online<\/a>.<\/li>\n\t
Or mail a letter to Equifax Information Services LLC, P.O. Box 740256, Atlanta, GA 30348.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
Experian:<\/p>\n\n
\n\t
Complete the dispute process online<\/a>.<\/li>\n\t
Download and print a letter<\/a> to mail to Experian, P.O. Box 4500, Allen, TX 75013.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
Gathering Information for Your Dispute<\/h2>\n\n
To report any dispute, you need to gather information. Your credit report will include much of the information you need, but then use things like your bank statement or online account with the credit card lender to prove the information is inaccurate. If the dispute is clearly due to someone else using your identification, you must take more aggressive measures to protect your identity. To do that, visit the Federal Trade Commission's website and follow the steps to protect your identity.<\/p>\n\n
Overview of the Dispute Process<\/h2>\n\n
Here's what you can expect from this process:<\/p>\n\n
\n\t
Gather the information you have to prove the information is inaccurate or ask the credit bureau to dispute the claim with the lender. You can create a letter to send them or use the forms provided.<\/li>\n\t
Mail that to the right place, or file it online.<\/li>\n\t
The credit bureaus will have 30 days to take action and investigate this information. They will verify the lender's information and make any necessary changes. The results are reported to you within five business days of the investigation ending.<\/li>\n\t
Recheck your credit report in 45 days to verify the information is updated.<\/li>\n\t
If the bureau determines your claim is frivolous, meaning they cannot back up your claims, you can submit a new claim with updated materials to prove the data.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
What to Do if the Credit Bureau Doesn't Correct the Error<\/h2>\n\n
There may be situations in which the credit bureau does not change the data on your credit report. This can happen for many reasons, but it often happens because the credit bureau does not have enough information to verify that what you are claiming is true. You can request that the credit bureaus document that the information on the report is inaccurate, even if they state that it is. In addition to this, you can file a secondary dispute as a way to provide more material to verify your claim.<\/p>\n\n
Legal Options Available<\/h2>\n\n
There are some situations in which you may find yourself facing a claim on your credit report that is not accurate, and you do not have any ability to dispute it again. This may happen, for example, if someone else uses your information to open an account in your name, but you cannot prove that it was not you. You have some additional legal options. For example, you can complain to the state's consumer protection agency. You can also contact your congressional representative or senator for more information. Be sure to loop the Federal Trade Commission in if there are any risks of identity theft. It is possible to take legal action against the creditor or the credit reporting agency if the information is incorrect. The Fair Credit Reporting Act gives you the legal right to do so. While complicated, you may need to take steps to protect your financial future.<\/p>\n"},"library":"H5P.AdvancedText 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Text","license":"U","title":"Untitled Text"},"subContentId":"40621d42-a29d-4560-915d-e14e80ac9642"},"useSeparator":"auto"}]},"library":"H5P.Column 1.16","subContentId":"f315a94d-1893-406d-af67-d102db0fa0c3","metadata":{"contentType":"Column","license":"U","title":"Disputing Errors on Your Credit Report"}},{"params":{"content":[{"content":{"params":{"text":"
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your credit, perhaps like you cannot get control over it? That is not uncommon, but there is help for it. One option for some people is using credit counseling, a service designed to help you navigate the repayment of the debt you owe.<\/p>\n\n
What is Credit Counseling?<\/h2>\n\n
Credit counseling is a service that helps you to gain advice and guidance on your debts and money management. Whether for-profit or nonprofit, these services can help you create a budget to manage your current debts more effectively. They may also educate you on healthily using credit.<\/p>\n\n
These organizations can also help you work with your creditors to get your debts caught up. As you consider these organizations, you should know the differences in how they work and which services they can offer to you.<\/p>\n\n
How Does Credit Counseling Work<\/h2>\n\n
Credit counseling services work with people one-on-one to offer guidance and support based on their unique needs. This could mean that you work with a trained and licensed counselor to create a budget and work out a debt management plan. It could also mean that they offer you insight into how to build your credit so you can qualify to buy a home. They can provide you with access to free credit workshops or help you understand your credit report and scores.<\/p>\n\n
Types of Credit Counseling<\/h2>\n\n
Both for-profit and nonprofit credit counseling services may be an option for you. However, knowing which one offers the types of services you need is essential. Some of the services to look for include:<\/p>\n\n
\n\t
Budgeting and financial education: Some credit counseling services provide general budgeting and counseling services. This helps you to build a budget based on your income and expenses and then allows you to work towards your financial goals.<\/li>\n\t
Debt management plans: In some situations, the credit counseling professional will help you to create a plan to repay your debt to creditors. You will make a single payment to the agency, which, in turn, will distribute the amount to your lenders. This method lets you catch up on your debts and may help you pay them off over five or so years. There are often some fees involved in this process.<\/li>\n\t
Housing counseling: You can turn to a credit counseling service to help you build your credit and down payment to purchase a home in the future. They can also help you learn about grants and other options to help you save money on your first home purchase.<\/li>\n\t
Bankruptcy counseling: There are many reasons why people may need bankruptcy counseling, including that they cannot pay the debts they owe over time. These counselors can offer insight into whether there are ways to recover from this situation or if you qualify for bankruptcy.<\/li>\n\t
Student loan counseling: You may also want to speak to a credit counselor about access to student loans, grants, and other opportunities to reduce your overall cost of higher education.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
Benefits of Credit Counseling<\/h2>\n\n
Working with a credit counseling service can offer a wide range of benefits to you:<\/p>\n\n
\n\t
It is typically low-cost or free. That means you get information and guidance without worrying about the overall fees.<\/li>\n\t
If you need a debt management plan, these counselors have good relationships with lenders that may help you settle your debt for less than what you owe or reduce fees.<\/li>\n\t
The education provided is exceptional and will point you toward the best way to improve your financial future.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
Choosing a Credit Counseling Service<\/h2>\n\n
If you consider the credit counseling path, know who you work with, as not all organizations are the same. Some things to look for include the following:<\/p>\n\n
\n\t
Cost: Many services are free, though most will have some fees that you will need to pay for ongoing services.<\/li>\n\t
Accreditation and certification: Be sure you choose an organization that is properly licensed, accredited, and certified to provide these services in your area.<\/li>\n\t
Nonprofit: Nonprofit organizations are typically members of the Financial Counseling Association of America or the National Foundation for Credit Counseling. Loko for that to know they are a trustworthy organization to work with.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
Alternatives to Credit Counseling<\/h2>\n\n
There are drawbacks to working with a credit counseling service, especially in a debt repayment plan, which can hurt your credit score in the short term. Consider exploring all of the options available to you:<\/p>\n\n
\n\t
Communicate directly with your creditors to determine if they can help you.<\/li>\n\t
Talk to your mortgage lender about consolidation.<\/li>\n\t
Turn to a local free service or nonprofit organization for help with budgeting.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
The key here is to know what all of your options are. Finding the right step forward can make a big difference in your financial future.<\/p>\n"},"library":"H5P.AdvancedText 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Text","license":"U","title":"Untitled Text"},"subContentId":"163a00e3-afd2-4b8e-ac41-344c5ed379be"},"useSeparator":"auto"}]},"library":"H5P.Column 1.16","subContentId":"5962b544-f7d7-4d60-bc64-35a81d2dfd8b","metadata":{"contentType":"Column","license":"U","title":"Credit Counseling"}},{"params":{"content":[{"content":{"params":{"text":"
You want to get out of debt and help build your credit so you can borrow more affordably. The problem is that not every online service may be worth your investment or time. Unfortunately, numerous credit repair scams exist, many of which can prove costly in the long run.<\/p>\n\n
Some credit counselors can help you, and others make promises they cannot keep. Still, others promise to do things they cannot do for you or that you can do yourself. Here is what to know about credit repair scams and how to navigate the process.<\/p>\n\n
Types of Credit Repair Scams<\/h2>\n\n
Credit repair scams are often growing and changing. It can be hard to know what's real and what is a costly scam. Here are several of the most common scams and what they can mean to you.<\/p>\n\n
\n\t
File segregation schemes: Some credit repair companies may tell you to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service. These are typically reserved for businesses. They may ask you to use this new number for credit instead. However, that is not legally allowed unless you have a business.<\/li>\n\t
Pay to become an authorized user: Credit card companies allow credit card holders to add authorized users to their accounts, allowing another person to use their account. Some credit repair companies may tell you to add them as authorized users to your accounts. There is no way for this to improve your credit score.<\/li>\n\t
Credit privacy number: Credit repair companies sometimes tell you they can create a new identity for you. This would allow you to build a new credit history. This is illegal.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
Signs of Credit Repair Scams<\/h2>\n\n
Figuring out that the service is a scam isn't always easy. Remember that these companies typically prey on those desperate for access to credit, which means they often make promises they cannot fulfill. Some of the most common warning signs that you are dealing with a credit repair scam include the following:<\/p>\n\n
\n\t
They want you to pay a fee upfront before anything is done. Credit counseling services may charge a fee, but they will not make you pay upfront. The law requires that companies not charge a fee until they complete the services they tell you they will provide \u2013 this falls under the Credit Repair Organizations Act. Be careful \u2013 some companies may create a payment plan that builds in these fees to hide it from you!<\/li>\n\t
Will not tell you what they are doing but promises to fix it. If the company cannot tell you precisely what they are doing, such as disputing errors on your report, they are likely not engaged in legal service. You can dispute claims on your credit report without paying for this service. If you sign up for a credit repair service, they should provide you with a clear outline of what they will be doing.<\/li>\n\t
They promise to remove negative information from your report. If they can get that information removed, so can you. Most of the time, it simply is not possible. The key to remember here is that the only way to remove information from your credit report is if the information is inaccurate or old, which you can handle.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
The Consequences of Credit Repair Scams<\/h2>\n\n
What happens if credit repair scams do happen to you?<\/p>\n\n
\n\t
You end up paying for services you do not receive.<\/li>\n\t
You could find yourself at odds with your credit card companies, especially if the actions of the credit repair companies damage your relationship with them.<\/li>\n\t
You could face legal consequences if you violate the law while following the company's recommendations.<\/li>\n\t
Your identity could be at risk.<\/li>\n\t
You may suffer from financial loss and damage to your credit history.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
How to Avoid Credit Repair Scams<\/h2>\n\n
You can avoid credit repair scams in many ways. First, pay attention to the warning signs for any company that makes promises to you that are not accurate. Then, make sure you stay in contact with your lenders, making timely payments. If you risk falling behind, look for an accredited financial advisor or credit counselor.<\/p>\n\n
Fix your credit report problems yourself. You can get help from the three credit bureaus to do this. You don't have to file a claim with a third party \u2013 the credit bureaus make the entire process very easy to manage yourself.<\/p>\n\n
Consumer Protections<\/h2>\n\n
The Credit Repair Organizations Act (CROA) is a U.S. federal law enacted in 1996 to protect consumers from fraudulent or deceptive practices by credit repair companies. The Act aims to ensure that credit repair organizations provide honest and transparent services to clients seeking to improve their credit scores or fix inaccuracies in their credit reports.<\/p>\n\n
Key provisions of the CROA include:<\/p>\n\n
\n\t
Prohibiting false or misleading claims: Credit repair organizations cannot make fraudulent or deceptive statements about their services, the possible results they can achieve, or the time it will take to see results.<\/li>\n\t
Written contracts: CROA mandates that credit repair organizations provide clients with a written agreement detailing the terms and conditions of the services offered, including any guarantees and the client's right to cancel the contract.<\/li>\n\t
Right to cancel: Consumers can cancel a contract with a credit repair organization within three days of signing without any penalties or obligations.<\/li>\n\t
Advance fee prohibition: Credit repair organizations are not allowed to charge or receive payment for their services until they fully perform the agreed-upon services.<\/li>\n\t
Disclosure requirements: The Act requires organizations to provide consumers with a clear and conspicuous disclosure statement informing them of their rights under the CROA and federal law.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
Violations of the CROA can result in civil penalties, injunctions, and damages awarded to affected consumers. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is responsible for enforcing the CROA and ensuring compliance by credit repair organizations.<\/p>\n\n
What to Do if You Become a Victim of a Credit Repair Scam<\/h2>\n\n
If you have been the victim of a credit repair scam, you have several steps to take:<\/p>\n\n
\n\t
Contact the Federal Trade Commission<\/a> to report the company and its actions. You can call 1-877-FTC-HELP to do so or contact them online.<\/li>\n\t
Contact your state attorney general for guidance on legal steps to help you. If the company has violated the Credit Repair Organizations Act or the Telemarking Sales Rule, it may be responsible for your losses.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
You may want to get help with your credit in many situations. The good news is there are many nonprofit organizations, helpful online resources, and resources such as the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau<\/a> that can help you without risk.<\/p>\n"},"library":"H5P.AdvancedText 1.1","metadata":{"contentType":"Text","license":"U","title":"Untitled Text"},"subContentId":"abcb4eb2-8dac-4066-a1c0-75e9aaf6b89e"},"useSeparator":"auto"}]},"library":"H5P.Column 1.16","subContentId":"13643d42-6b07-41e1-8d52-ceee447da37f","metadata":{"contentType":"Column","license":"U","title":"Credit Repair Scams"}}],"behaviour":{"baseColor":"#002d72","defaultTableOfContents":true,"progressIndicators":true,"progressAuto":true,"displaySummary":true},"read":"Read","displayTOC":"Display 'Table of contents'","hideTOC":"Hide 'Table of contents'","nextPage":"Next page","previousPage":"Previous page","chapterCompleted":"Page completed!","partCompleted":"@pages of @total completed","incompleteChapter":"Incomplete page","navigateToTop":"Navigate to the top","markAsFinished":"I have finished this page","fullscreen":"Fullscreen","exitFullscreen":"Exit fullscreen","bookProgressSubtext":"@count of @total pages","interactionsProgressSubtext":"@count of @total interactions","submitReport":"Submit Report","restartLabel":"Restart","summaryHeader":"Summary","allInteractions":"All interactions","unansweredInteractions":"Unanswered interactions","scoreText":"@score \/ @maxscore","leftOutOfTotalCompleted":"@left of @max interactions completed","noInteractions":"No interactions","score":"Score","summaryAndSubmit":"Summary & submit","noChapterInteractionBoldText":"You have not interacted with any pages.","noChapterInteractionText":"You have to interact with at least one page before you can see the summary.","yourAnswersAreSubmittedForReview":"Your answers are submitted for review!","bookProgress":"Book progress","interactionsProgress":"Interactions progress","totalScoreLabel":"Total score","a11y":{"progress":"Page @page of @total.","menu":"Toggle navigation menu"}}

Disputing Errors on Your Credit Report<\/h2>\n\nWhat happens when you find an error on your credit report, though? When that happens, you have the right to dispute it. That means you will contact the credit bureau and inform them that you believe there's an error.<\/p>\n\n