CONSUMERS BENEFIT FROM THE FAIR CREDIT REPORTING ACT
The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) is written as a protection for the consumer and not the credit reporting agencies. Please see www.ftc.gov/s/statutes/fcradoc.pdf for details of this important act.
The FCRA explains what we can see from the credit reporting agencies and our rights. We have a right to view the financial history which the credit bureaus have for us. Remember that these agencies are interested in money and are “for profit.”
There is much information on your credit report regarding your financial picture. Even though most of the entries may be accurate, it is possible that you may find false and/or outdated information in these documents. This could be an unwelcome surprise.
The FTC (Federal Trade Commission) tells us that we do not need to arrange for “magic fix” from a possibly dishonest agency. We can fix our credit ourselves. The FRCA basically says that the only “negative” information that is permitted to remain on your credit report is negative information that can be proved to be true.
When you do the comparison and review of your reports, if negative information is true, “it has to stay.” Mark the entries you plan to dispute. Then you will make a case for removal.
All of your data regarding inaccurate information will need to be documented and provide your proof of an error. This will be sent to the Credit Bureaus who must respond. It will be up to them to prove all information is true.
It is possible that you may decide that this project is really not something you can successfully complete on your own. Then you may consider “credit counseling.” Do this very cautiously. “Overnight” credit fix is too good to be true and these companies could ask for a lot of money “upfront” and charge a monthly fee. Although it might sound really good, remember that these agencies are also “for profit” and need to make money. Think SCAM.
There are people who can probably give you referrals for honest companies or people who can assist you. People are available who are reputable and will take care of your needs.
Related posts:
