Finding errors on your credit report can be frustrating — and alarming. Incorrect credit reporting can affect your ability to get a loan, rent an apartment, obtain insurance, or even secure employment. The good news is that you have rights, and there is a clear process for correcting inaccurate information.

Here's what to do if you discover incorrect reporting on your credit — and how to protect yourself moving forward.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. For guidance specific to your situation, consult a licensed Wisconsin attorney.

Step 1: Get Copies of Your Credit Reports

Start by reviewing your credit reports from all three major credit bureaus. Errors may appear on one report but not the others.

Look for:

• Accounts that aren't yours

• Incorrect balances

• Late payments that were actually paid on time

• Duplicate accounts

• Accounts marked delinquent or in collections incorrectly

• Accounts that should have been removed

• Incorrect personal information

Carefully review every entry — small errors can have big consequences.

Step 2: Identify and Document the Errors

Once you spot inaccurate information:

• Write down exactly what is wrong

• Note which credit bureau is reporting the error

• Gather supporting documents such as:

  • Payment records

  • Bank statements

  • Settlement letters

  • Billing statements

  • Court documents

Documentation strengthens your dispute and speeds up correction.

Step 3: Dispute the Error With the Credit Bureaus

You have the right to dispute inaccurate or incomplete credit information.

Your dispute should:

• Clearly identify the account

• Explain what is incorrect

• State what the correct information should be

• Include copies of supporting documents

Disputes can be submitted online or by mail, but written disputes sent by certified mail often provide better documentation and protection.

Once a dispute is filed, the credit bureau must:

• Investigate the claim

• Contact the company that furnished the information

• Correct or delete inaccurate information

Investigations typically must be completed within 30 days.

Step 4: Dispute Directly With the Furnisher

In addition to disputing with the credit bureaus, you can dispute directly with the company that reported the information (the “furnisher”).

Send a written dispute explaining:

• What is inaccurate

• Why it is wrong

• What documentation supports your position

Furnishers are required to investigate and correct inaccurate reporting.

Step 5: Monitor the Results Carefully

After the investigation:

• Review updated credit reports

• Confirm corrections were made

• Check that deleted items are not reinserted incorrectly

If information is corrected, make sure it stays corrected.

Step 6: If the Error Is Not Fixed, Escalate

If incorrect reporting continues, you still have options.

You may:

• Submit a follow-up dispute with additional documentation

• Request a statement of dispute be added to your credit report

• File a complaint with a consumer protection agency

• Consider legal action if the reporting violates consumer protection laws

Credit bureaus and furnishers can be held accountable when they fail to correct verified inaccuracies.

Step 7: Protect Yourself Going Forward

To avoid future issues:

• Review your credit reports regularly

• Keep records of payments and settlements

• Be cautious about sharing personal information

• Respond promptly to billing errors or collection notices

Early detection is the best defense against long-term credit damage.

Common Credit Reporting Errors to Watch For

• Identity mix-ups with someone with a similar name

• Debts reported after bankruptcy discharge

• Paid accounts still listed as delinquent

• Incorrect dates of first delinquency

• Accounts that should have aged off your report

Even one inaccurate account can significantly lower your score.

Final Thoughts

Incorrect credit reporting is more common than many people realize — but it doesn't have to define your financial future. Federal law gives consumers the right to accurate credit reporting and a clear path to correction.

By acting quickly, documenting carefully, and following the dispute process step by step, you can protect your credit and hold reporting companies accountable.

Attorney Nathan DeLadurantey offers free consultations to explain your legal rights in Wisconsin. Free consultations can be scheduled online.