Identify the exact item and exact issue
Record the reporting company, furnisher, partial account identifier, disputed field, and report date. Write one plain sentence explaining why the field appears inaccurate or incomplete and what correction is requested.
Attach only relevant supporting copies
The FTC recommends including copies, not originals, of supporting documents and a copy of the report with the disputed item identified. Useful records might include statements, payment confirmations, account correspondence, or identity-theft records when genuine.
- Dispute letter
- Marked report copy
- Relevant evidence copies
- Identity confirmation required by the recipient
- Mail, upload, or confirmation receipt
Keep a complete outbound record
Save exactly what was sent, the delivery channel, date, recipient, tracking or confirmation number, and any response. Do not send originals, and do not expose sensitive documents through an unapproved public channel.
Common questions
Clear answers, clear limits.
Should I send every financial record I have?
No. Send the records relevant to the exact disputed fact while following the recipient's identity and submission requirements.
Can I use screenshots?
Use reliable copies that clearly show the source, date, and relevant information. Preserve the original record separately.
Should each error have its own explanation?
Yes. A specific item, reason, evidence link, and requested correction make the dispute easier to evaluate and track.