If an item is changed or removed, the credit bureaus cannot put the disputed information back in your file unless the information provider verifies its accuracy and completeness, and the credit reporting agencies gives you a written notice that includes the name, address, and phone number of the provider. Also, if you request, the credit bureaus must send notices of corrections to anyone who received your report in the past six months. Job applicants can have a corrected copy of their report sent to anyone who received a copy during the past two years for employment purposes. If a reinvestigation does not resolve your dispute, ask the credit reporting agencies to include your statement of the dispute in your file and in future reports. Second, in addition to writing to the credit bureaus, tell the creditor or other information provider in writing that you dispute an item.
Many providers specify an address for disputes.
If the provider then reports the item to any credit reporting agencies, it must include a notice of your dispute. When negative information in your report is accurate, only the passage of time can assure its removal. Accurate negative information can generally stay on your report for 7 years. Bankruptcy information may be reported for 10 years. Information about a lawsuit or an unpaid judgment against you can be reported for seven years or until the statute of limitations runs out, whichever is longer.