Ever spot something on your credit report that just doesn’t look right? Millions of Americans find errors on their credit reports every year, and disputing those mistakes right away is a smart move, especially if: 

• You’re planning to buy a new car/home in 2025

• You have been denied a new line of credit 

• Incorrect negative marks have significantly lowered your credit score 

But what happens after you (or the credit repair expert you hire) finally send that dispute letter to the credit bureaus? Will it automatically clean up your credit report and improve your credit score? Understanding the dispute process, your rights, and the possible outcomes can help you take control of your credit.  

Let’s break down what you can expect, step by step.

Step 1: Filing Your Dispute

You can dispute an item on your credit report for free. File directly with the credit bureau (Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion) or with the lender that reported the information. You can submit your dispute online, by mail, or by phone. 

Be clear and specific about what you believe is inaccurate. 

Many people hire dedicated credit repair companies to file disputes on their behalf to save time and effort. 

Step 2: The Investigation Begins

Once you file a dispute, the credit bureau is required by law to investigate your claim. Here’s what happens next:

• The bureau contacts the data furnisher (the lender or collection agency that reported the item).

• The data furnisher must review their records and respond, confirming whether the information is accurate or needs to be corrected.

• The bureau reviews all the information and documentation you provided.

Federal law requires the bureau to complete the investigation within 30 days. If you provide more documentation after the dispute starts, the process may take up to 45 days.

Step 3: Tracking Your Dispute

You don’t have to wonder what’s happening behind the scenes. Most credit bureaus allow you to track your dispute status online. You’ll see updates like:

• Open: Your dispute has been received and is being reviewed.

• Update: The investigation is complete, and your report is being updated.

• Dispute results ready: The results are available, and your report reflects any changes.

You’ll also receive a confirmation code or reference number for your records.

Step 4: The Outcome-What Can Happen?

When the investigation is complete, the bureau will notify you of the results, usually by mail or email. Here are the possible outcomes:

• Added: The item was added to your credit report

• Updated: The information you disputed has been revised or updated.

• Verified and updated: The information was verified as accurate, but unrelated info was updated.

• Deleted: The item was removed from your credit report.

• Processed: The item was either updated or deleted.

• Remains: The data furnisher confirmed the item is accurate, so it wasn’t changed.

If your dispute leads to a change, you’re entitled to a free updated credit report to review the correction.

Step 5: If You Disagree With the Results

Sometimes, the investigation doesn’t go your way. If the item remains and you still believe it’s incorrect:

• Contact the lender directly: Ask for documentation or clarification.

• Re-file your dispute: Provide new or additional evidence; don’t just resubmit the same information.

• Add a statement of dispute: You can ask the bureau to include a note in your report explaining your side. Lenders will see this note when they review your credit

If you repeatedly submit the same dispute without new evidence, the bureau can dismiss it as “frivolous” and decline to investigate further

Your Rights Under the FCRA

The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) is the federal law that protects your rights during the dispute process. Here’s what it guarantees:

• You can dispute any inaccurate or incomplete information for free.

• The credit bureau must investigate and respond within 30 days (or 45 days with new documentation).

• If the information is found to be inaccurate, it must be corrected or removed.

• You have the right to see the results of the investigation and get a free updated report if changes are made

You can also dispute derogatory marks directly with the company that furnished the information (the lender or collection agency). They are required to investigate and report the results to you and the credit bureaus

How Disputes Affect Your Credit Score

Filing a dispute itself does not hurt your credit score. However, if the result of your dispute is the removal or correction of negative information (like a late payment or collection), your score can improve, sometimes significantly. 

If the disputed item is verified as accurate and remains, your score won’t change. 

How Long Does Information Stay on Your Report?

• Negative items (late payments, collections, foreclosures): 7 years

• Chapter 13 bankruptcy: 7 years

• Chapter 7 bankruptcy: 10 years

• Hard inquiries: 2 years

• Positive accounts: Indefinitely (open) or up to 10 years (closed in good standing.)

Tips for a Successful Dispute

• Be specific: Identify the item and explain why it’s wrong.

• Provide documentation: The more evidence you have, the better.

• Keep records: Save copies of all correspondence, confirmation numbers, and supporting documents.

• Monitor your credit: After the dispute, check your updated report to ensure the correction was made.

Final Words 

Sending dispute letters and following up with the credit bureaus is something you can do yourself. But it’s important to recognize that the process can be time-consuming and sometimes confusing. 

Understanding the ins and outs of credit reporting laws, timelines, and documentation requirements takes effort. 

If you find the process overwhelming or simply want expert guidance, reputable credit repair services are available. 

At AMERICA CREDIT CARE, we have helped thousands of people successfully remove incorrect derogatory marks. Our team has the tools and know-how to help you achieve the best possible outcome for your credit.

Don’t let your past mistakes or unexpected challenges like medical debts, student loans, job loss, etc. hold you back. Take action, follow up, and give yourself the best shot at a stronger credit score and a brighter financial future.

Book your free consultation with a credit repair expert today.