FAQS ON CREDIT REPORT ERRORS

■ How can I check my credit report for errors?

You are entitled to a free credit report each year from each of the nationwide credit reporting agencies. You have to provide your name, Social Security number and date of birth to verify your identity. The three agencies have set up one website, AnnualCreditReport.com, where you can request the reports. You can also get a free report if you are denied credit, insurance or a job based on information in the report.

■ What do I do if I find an error?

Federal law says that both the credit agency and the information provider are responsible for correcting inaccurate or incomplete information. Notify the credit reporting company, in writing, what information is inaccurate and include copies of documents that support what you say. The Federal Trade Commission recommends enclosing a copy of your report with the items in question circled. The letter should be sent by certified mail with return receipt requested, so you have proof that the company received it. Also notify the creditor or other company that provided the information to the bureaus. If you believe you are the victim of identity theft, notify the bureau and creditors immediately and file a report with police. The FTC website IdentityTheft.gov also has form letters to send to merchants, banks and others.

■ How long does it take to fix an error?

Credit reporting companies generally must investigate within 30 days unless a dispute is considered frivolous. Many cases are resolved within six months, consumer advocates say. However, some disputes can take years to resolve.

■ Where can I get help disputing a report?

The National Association of Consumer Advocates, which is made up of more than 1,500 lawyers and advocates who represent consumer interests, has links to attorneys and organizations that may help. The Fair Credit Reporting Act has a provision that enables consumers who win disputes to have their attorney fees paid for by the credit bureaus. You can also submit a complaint to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, which tracks problems and can ask companies to respond. File a complaint at consumerfinance.gov/complaint/

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION; HYOSUB SHIN / HSHIN@AJC.COM The credit-reporting company Equifax, based in Atlanta, has been accused of failing to correct errors in its reports. This image includes an excerpt from a lawsuit filed in 2017.