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If your information is incorrect or outdated, you can file a formal dispute with TransUnion to remove the items from your credit report. Find out how to dispute your TransUnion credit report in this how-to guide.
Does your credit report show an incorrect name? Account Number? Mailing Address? What about any outdated information that should have been updated by now?
TransUnion produces your credit report after it receives key data from mortgage lenders, loan providers, employers, and even landlords. This information helps paint a clear picture of your ‘credit’ profile.
Currently, 1 in 5 Americans have an error on their credit report, and they don’t even know. As a consumer, it is vital you routinely monitor your credit score and dispute items when necessary.
Unfortunately, a simple credit reporting error can have a devastating effect on your credit score.
Here is how to dispute your TransUnion credit report.
How to Dispute Your TransUnion Credit Report (Step-by-Step)
Disputing your TransUnion credit report involves getting a new copy of your credit report, taking notes, and being proactive.
Step #1: Get a Free Copy of Your Credit Report
Before you dispute your TransUnion credit report, the first thing you need to do is request a clean copy of your credit report. WithAnnualcreditreport.com, you can get your credit report from all three credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, & TransUnion) in no time.
What to Look Out for On Your TransUnion Credit Report
At first, glance, reading a credit report is like learning a foreign language. It is intimidating, confusing, and complex. Like most things, it takes time to understand.
When reviewing your TransUnion credit report, you need to look out for two things: correct identifying information (PII) and reporting errors.
Personal Identifiable Information (PII)
While incorrect personal information will not damage your credit score, it could reveal other things, such as whether you are a victim of fraudulent activity or identity theft.
Or it could mean your information was mixed up. Make sure this information is correct:
- Social Security Number
- Current Mailing Address
- Previous Mailing Address
- Legal Name
- Current and Past Employers
- Phone Number
- Date of Birth
Write down any information that needs to be updated or is incorrect. Next, review your TransUnion credit report for errors.
TransUnion Credit Report Errors
An error on your TransUnion credit report is never good. Fortunately, negative items fall off your credit report after 7-years.
Here are a few errors you need to look out for:
- Late Payments
- Collection Accounts that do not belong to you
- Improper ‘payment’ amounts
- Bankruptcies/Public Records that do not belong to you
Take note of all negative items or errors on your credit report. The more you can document and point out, the better. This information will help you as you file your dispute with TransUnion.
Step #2: Dispute Your TransUnion Credit Report (3 Ways)
TransUnion makes it easy for consumers to file a dispute. You can dispute your TransUnion credit report online, by mail, or over the phone.
Dispute TransUnion Reports Online:
Disputing your TransUnion credit report online is quick, easy, and safe. Before you can dispute your error, you need to create an account with TransUnion. Once your TransUnion account is created, you need to sign in and click “new investigation.” This will allow you to review your credit report.
As we learned earlier, the first thing you need to do is review your personal information. Make sure everything is updated and current.
Make edits as needed. Now click, “request investigation” to begin filing your TransUnion dispute.
TransUnion makes it easy for you to upload supporting documents, take notes, and track the progress of your dispute.
Once you submit your TransUnion dispute, give them a few days to review it. TransUnion will reach out to you after they make a final decision.
How to Dispute Your TransUnion Credit Report by Mail:
Maybe filing a dispute online is not for you. That is fine! Sometimes sending TransUnion a good ole’ letter will do the trick.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recommends consumers to send their dispute letter via certified mail and request a return receipt.
Here is what your TransUnion Dispute Letter needs to include.
- Full Name including middle initial
- Date of Birth
- Social Security Number (SSN)
- All addresses where you have lived during the past two years
- A copy of your government-issued identification card.
- A copy of a utility bill, bank, or insurance statement. TransUnion needs this to verify your document.
- The error you are disputing and supporting documentation. Make sure to include the company name and associated account number.
TransUnion Consumer Solutions Mailing Address:
- Mailing Address: P.O. Box 2000, Chester, PA 19016-2000
After you send TransUnion your letter, give them time to process your dispute request, review it, and respond. They will send you a letter with their decision.
Disputing TransUnion Credit Reports by Phone
You can also dispute your TransUnion credit report by phone. Before you call though, make sure you have a TransUnion credit report nearby.
A customer support representative will need additional information from your report to process your dispute request.
- Phone Number: 800-916-8800
Key Takeaway: How to File a Dispute with TransUnion
How you file a dispute with TransUnion is entirely up to you. Some people prefer to do everything online, since it is the quickest, while others prefer a more old-fashioned route.
Regardless, make sure you review your TransUnion credit report and take note of information that is incorrect or not up to date.
Depending on how many disputes you file, TransUnion may take up to 30-days; however, most customers hear back sooner.
How Long Does a Dispute with Experian Take?
According to TransUnion, dispute investigations may take up to 30-days. This is because they thoroughly review each dispute request and consider all factors.
Do I Have to File a Dispute with TransUnion Myself?
While most people file disputes themselves, the process is known to be overwhelming and intimidating. The credit bureaus are large, billion-dollar corporations that process millions of credit reports annually.
There is a lot of room for error. As a consumer, you can hire a credit repair company to guide you through the process. A credit repair firm will ensure your consumer’s rights are protected and upheld under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).
Our top choice is Credit Saint. They have removed thousands of negative items off TransUnion credit reports and will teach you how to successfully build credit.
What Happens After I File a Dispute with TransUnion?
Once you file a dispute with TransUnion, you will need to wait for 30-days for them to process your request. After they review your formal dispute, TransUnion will notify you of their findings.
If TransUnion agrees with the supporting documentation and claims you provided, then they will make the appropriate corrections on your credit report. However, if TransUnion disagrees, then your credit report will remain as is.
Do not worry, if the latter happens then you need to reach out to the creditor or individual that reported to TransUnion the wrong information.
Have this organization reach out to TransUnion to correct it and remove the negative item from your credit report.
Once this is all said and done, file a dispute with Experian and another dispute with Equifax. Chances are all three credit bureaus are reporting the wrong information.
Bottom Line: How to Dispute Your Experian Credit Report
As you can see, TransUnion makes it easy for you to file a dispute. You can either file one online, by phone, or by mail. Choose whichever option makes sense for you.
Finally, if you have filed more than one dispute before, then consider purchasing a credit monitoring service. Monitoring your credit allows you to track your credit score, protect your PII, and more.
You never want to leave your credit score up for chance.
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