What Happens After a Dispute Is Resolved
Understanding dispute outcomes and your next steps
Outcome Decision Tree
Item Deleted
The disputed information was found to be inaccurate and removed from your credit report.
Item Updated
The information was corrected based on the investigation findings.
Item Verified
The information was confirmed as accurate and remains on your report.
Dispute Resolution Outcomes
After investigating your dispute, the credit bureau will send you a written notice of the results within 30 days.
Outcome 1: Item Deleted
The disputed information is removed from your credit report. This is the best outcome.
What This Means:
- The item will no longer appear on your report
- Your credit score may improve immediately
- You'll receive an updated credit report
- The bureau notifies anyone who received your report in the last 6 months
Outcome 2: Item Updated
The information is corrected based on investigation findings.
Common Updates:
- Balance corrected
- Payment status changed
- Account status updated
- Dates corrected
Outcome 3: Item Verified
The information is confirmed as accurate and remains on your report unchanged.
Your Options:
- Request reinvestigation with additional evidence
- Add a 100-word consumer statement
- Contact the data furnisher directly
- File a complaint with CFPB
- Consult with a consumer attorney
Understanding Your Results Letter
The bureau's response will include:
- Investigation results for each disputed item
- Updated credit report (if changes were made)
- Explanation of investigation process
- Contact information for data furnisher
- Your rights to request reinvestigation
After a Successful Dispute
Verify Changes Across All Bureaus
If an item was deleted from one bureau, ensure it's removed from all three. You may need to dispute with each bureau separately.
Monitor Your Credit Score
Check if your score improved after the deletion or correction. Changes typically reflect within 30-60 days.
Keep Documentation
Save all dispute correspondence and results letters. These are important for your records and potential future disputes.
If Your Dispute Was Unsuccessful
1. Request Reinvestigation
You can ask the bureau to reinvestigate if you have new evidence or information.
2. Add a Consumer Statement
Write a 100-word explanation that will be included in your credit report.
3. Contact the Data Furnisher
Dispute directly with the creditor who reported the information.
4. File a CFPB Complaint
Submit a complaint at consumerfinance.gov if you believe the bureau violated your rights.
5. Seek Legal Help
Consult with a consumer attorney if you believe your FCRA rights were violated.
Impact on Your Credit Score
Removing negative items can improve your score, but the impact varies:
- Recent negative items: Bigger score impact when removed
- Old items: Less impact as they already have reduced weight
- High-balance accounts: Significant utilization improvement
- Late payments: Noticeable positive change
Timeline for Score Changes
After successful dispute:
- Immediate: Item removed from report
- 1-7 days: Changes appear online
- 30 days: Score typically updates
- 60 days: All systems fully updated
Preventing Future Errors
- Review credit reports annually from all three bureaus
- Set up credit monitoring alerts
- Keep financial records organized
- Respond promptly to creditor notices
- Maintain good payment habits