Dispute Process & Timeline

Credit Disputes Made Simple: Process + Timeline + Tracking

Correct inaccurate, incomplete, or unverifiable credit data with a structured dispute workflow and clear timeline expectations for consumers in the USA & Canada.

Start a Dispute Plan
Download Dispute Checklist

Accuracy-first. Documentation-driven. No guaranteed outcomes.

  • Dispute vs “Complaint”
  • Before You Dispute (Prep)
  • Step-by-Step Dispute Process
  • What Happens When
  • Possible Outcomes
  • If the Result Is “Verified”
  • USA vs Canada Notes
  • FAQs

Dispute vs Complaint

A Dispute Corrects Data — A Complaint Escalates a Breakdown

Dispute

Request the credit reporting agency or data furnisher to investigate specific fields you believe are wrong — such as balance, dates, status, ownership, or identity information.

Complaint (USA)

Used if your dispute process stalls or cannot be resolved — typically after completing the dispute process and receiving a final response, or when timelines have passed. Contact the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau if needed.

A premium approach starts with a clean dispute packet and a tracking log — not “mass disputes.”

Winning Corrections Start Before You Hit “Submit”

Identify the exact items to dispute (one issue per item)

Gather proof: statements, payoff letters, receipts, correspondence

Screenshot or save the report page showing the error

Record the specific incorrect fields: payment status, delinquency date, balance, credit limit.

Build a dispute tracking log (dates + outcomes)

Organize all evidence and documents for easy submission and reference

The 8-Step Dispute Workflow (Organized + Repeatable)

Step 1 — Choose Your Path: Bureau and/or Furnisher

  • Decide to dispute with the credit reporting agency (CRA) or furnisher
  • Bureau disputes cover the full report; furnisher disputes focus on source.
  • Furnishers generally respond within ~30 days in the USA.
  • Best practice: Dispute with both the bureau and furnisher for cleaner corrections.

Step 2 — Write a “Field-Specific” Dispute (Not a Story)

  • Clearly identify the item (creditor name + account reference).
  • State exactly what is wrong and which field needs correction.
  • Specify what outcome you want (corrected, removed, or updated).
  • Attach evidence labeled as Exhibit A, B, C; avoid emotional or vague language.

Step 3 — Attach Proof (Evidence Packet)

  • Include billing statements showing due and paid dates.
  • Add payoff or settlement letters for account resolution proof.
  • Include receipts or bank confirmations when relevant.
  • Provide identity documents only for mixed file or identity mismatches.

Step 4 — Send Dispute & Track

  • Submit your dispute via secure channels: online portal, mail, or email.
  • Record the submission date, reference number, and recipient details.
  • Keep copies of all documents, evidence, and dispute letters.
  • Track progress in your Dispute Log daily or weekly.

Step 5 — Bureau/Furnisher Investigation

  • Agencies or furnishers review submitted evidence and verify accuracy.
  • Investigations typically take ~30 days in the USA and ~45 days in Canada.
  • Respond promptly to any requests for additional documentation.
  • Keep detailed notes for each step of the investigation.

Step 6 — Review Response

  • Check the bureau/furnisher decision: corrected, removed, or verified.
  • Compare the updated report with your original Dispute Log.
  • Document any partial corrections or discrepancies for follow-up.
  • Note which items were fully resolved and which may need further attention.

Step 7 — Escalation (If Needed)

  • File a complaint with the CFPB (USA) or provincial equivalent in Canada.
  • Include full dispute history, tracking log, and all supporting evidence.
  • Focus only on unresolved field-specific issues for stronger outcomes.
  • Avoid repeated mass disputes, which are less effective and may cause delays.

Step 8 — Maintain Clean Records

  • Save all correspondence, proofs, and updated reports for at least 7 years.
  • Organize records to support future disputes or loan applications.
  • Keep a summary log of all disputes and resolutions.
  • Use records to assist underwriting reviews and ongoing credit monitoring.