US free credit reports and disputing errors
Understand free weekly access to nationwide credit reports and the process for disputing inaccurate information. General US information only.
- Free online access
- Once a week from each nationwide bureauFTC, free credit reports
- Nationwide bureaus
- Equifax, Experian and TransUnionFTC, free credit reports
Free weekly reports
The FTC names AnnualCreditReport.com as the authorized website for free annual credit reports. Equifax, Experian and TransUnion have permanently extended a program allowing a free online report from each once a week there. This program is distinct from the federal-law entitlement to a free report from each nationwide bureau every 12 months on request. FTC, free credit reports (opens in a new tab).
Reporting an error
CFPB explains that correcting an error generally involves both the credit reporting company and the company that supplied the information, known as the furnisher. A written dispute identifies the disputed item, explains why it is wrong, requests correction or removal and includes copies of supporting documents and the relevant report portion. CFPB provides sample dispute letters and contact routes. CFPB, credit report disputes (opens in a new tab).
Investigation and outcomes
The credit reporting company must investigate a dispute, pass relevant information to the furnisher and report the results, subject to the exception for disputes reasonably determined frivolous or irrelevant. If the furnisher's investigation finds information wrong or unverifiable, it must update or remove it and notify the credit reporting companies. A dispute does not guarantee removal of accurate information. This site does not retrieve credit reports, collect dispute documents or submit disputes. CFPB, credit report disputes (opens in a new tab).