Checking your credit score is an essential part of being an adult, as this number impacts many areas of your life. However, when you notice that your credit score has drastically changed, you may check your credit report to see what has happened. If you notice an item or information that does not belong, understanding what you can do about this is essential. Keep reading to learn when to dispute an item and how a Los Angeles, California credit report lawyer can help you navigate these issues.
When Can I Dispute Information on My Credit Report?
Your credit score dictates whether or not you can get a car loan, where you can live, and if you can secure employment in some instances, making it all the more important to ensure the information is accurate. If you notice something on your report that does not belong, whether it’s inaccurate account information or an account you never opened, you do not have to let this unauthorized information remain. As a consumer, you have the right to dispute any incorrect information with the credit reporting bureau.
In some instances, inaccurate information like the wrong name or date of birth can be fixed easily. However, something like an account you do not recognize may be indicative of a more severe issue like identity theft.
Will This Hurt My Credit Score?
Disputing information does not hurt your credit score. However, if the information you are contesting impacts your credit score directly and is remedied, it could impact your number.
For example, if you dispute an address you never lived at that is listed on your report, having it removed would not impact the score as this information is not pertinent to your credit. However, if you disputed a late payment charge and it is fixed to show that you have had no late payments, it would likely improve your score. This is because a late payment does harm your credit score.
What Should I Do if the Reporting Company Won’t Fix the Charge?
Generally, there are four outcomes that can arise if you’ve filed a credit reporting dispute. The information will be updated, deleted from the report, processed, or remain on your account. If the statement remains, you may want to file another dispute with additional information about the error. In this case, you should contact the original lender (if it is a late payment charge, for example) and ask for evidence.
However, if the credit reporting bureau still refuses to fix the error, you should reach out to a credit report lawyer to explore our legal options. Your credit score has a significant impact on your life, and the error of a reporting company should not bar you from the opportunities you deserve.
At LA Legal Solutions, we understand that you care deeply about this score. As such, we will do everything possible to help ensure this issue is rectified. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you through this time.