A 2004 study by the U.S. PIRG -- federation of state Public Interest Research Groups -- found that one in four adults have serious errors on their credit reports. Not small errors either. The Fair Credit Reporting Act requires credit-reporting agencies to fix these mistakes, but it will take some work on your part. Use this work sheet to assist you.

Checklist
	Order a free copy of your credit report from each of the three reporting agencies in one of three ways: • www.annualcreditreport.com. • Call toll-free (877) 322-8228. • Complete the form on the back of the "Annual Credit Report Request" brochure, available from the FTC, and mail it to: Annual Credit Report Request Service, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281. • If it's been more than 90 days since you requested your free report, you may have to buy one from each agency: Experian TransUnion Equifax
	Tell the credit reporting agency about the error. • You can initiate an investigation online on the Web sites for all three credit reporting agencies. • If you use the online dispute feature on the credit-reporting agency Web site, follow that by sending a letter certified mail with return receipt requested. • Include in the letter: Your name and address. A list of the incorrect information, explain why and request that it be removed. Copies of your credit report with the erroneous item highlighted or circled. • Each agency has a phone number listed for disputes; if you call, keep copious, detailed notes and follow the phone call with a letter.
	Tell the creditor about the mistake. • Send a letter to the creditor notifying it that you dispute the information that the creditor has reported. • Explain what information is incorrect and ask the company to stop reporting it. • Include copies of information that supports your case.

Here's a form letter for you to use.

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