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Reinvestigation Process Explained
What happens during the 30-day credit dispute investigation
What is Reinvestigation?
When you file a dispute, credit bureaus must investigate within 30 days. This is called "reinvestigation" under the FCRA.
The Investigation Timeline
Days 1-5: Bureau Review
The credit bureau receives your dispute and reviews it for completeness. They forward it to the data furnisher (creditor).
Days 5-25: Data Furnisher Investigation
The creditor reviews their records and responds to the bureau with their findings.
Days 25-30: Bureau Decision
The bureau reviews the response and makes a determination. They must notify you of results.
Possible Outcomes
1. Verified
The information is confirmed as accurate and remains on your report.
2. Updated
The information is corrected based on the investigation findings.
3. Deleted
The item is removed from your report due to inaccuracy or lack of verification.
What You Can Do
- Request reinvestigation if result is unsatisfactory
- Add a 100-word consumer statement
- File complaint with CFPB
- Contact data furnisher directly
- Consider legal action if rights violated
Your Rights During Reinvestigation
- Investigation must complete within 30 days
- You must receive written results
- Updated credit report if changes made
- Free report after dispute
- Bureaus must notify furnishers of disputes