CREDIT IMPROVEMENT LETTERS CREDIT IMPROVEMENT SAMPLE LETTER CREDIT LETTERS CREDIT SAMPLE LETTERS SAMPLE CREDIT IMPROVEMENT LETTERS CREDIT REPAIR LETTERS CREDIT REPAIR SAMPLE LETTERS REPAIR CREDIT LETTERS REPAIR CREDIT SAMPLE LETTERS CREDIT IMPROVEMENT SYSTEM CREDIT IMPROVEMENT SAMPLE LETTERS FREE CREDIT IMPROVEMENT SYSTEM FREE CREDIT LETTERS FIND CREDIT REPAIR SAMPLE LETTERS CREDIT SCORE LETTERS CREDIT SCORE IMPROVEMENT SAMPLE LETTERS REPAIR CREDIT SCORE LETTERS CREDIT SCORE LETTERS HOW TO INCREASE MY CREDIT SCORE INCREASE CREDIT SCORE HOW CAN I INCREASE MY CREDIT SCORE HOW CAN I MAKE MY CREDIT SCORE HIGHER INCREASING CREDIT SCORE INFORMATION HOW CAN I IMPROVE MY CREDIT HOW CAN MAKE MY CREDIT SCORE HIGHER WHAT IS A CREDIT SCORE HOW TO MAKE MY CREDIT BETTER HOW TO DISPUTE CREDIT FILE I WANT TO DISPUTE MY CREDIT REPORT HOW TO IMPROVE MY CREDIT REPORT HOW TO CHANGE ERRORS ON MY CREDIT REPORT HOW TO CORRECT MY CREDIT REPORT HOW TO REMOVE NEGATIVE ITEMS FROM MY CREDIT REPORT HOW TO CHANGE MY CREDIT REPORT HOW TO CHANGE MY EXPERIAN CREDIT REPORT HOW TO CORRECT MY EQUIFAX CREDIT REPORT HOW TO CORRECT MY TRANSUNION CREDIT REPORT HOW TO REPORT ERROR ON MY CREDIT REPORT MISTAKES ON MY CREDIT REPORT THE NEW SCORING SYSTEM THE NEW CREDIT REPORTING SYSTEM THE NEW CREDIT BUREAU CREDIT SCORING SYSTEM THE CREDIT BUREAU NEW CREDIT SCORING SYSTEM BAD CREDIT REPORT GOOD CREDIT REPORT AVERAGE CREDIT REPORT LOW CREDIT SCORES INCREASING LOW CREDIT SCORES CREDIT REPAIR COMPANY CREDIT ADVISEMENT COMPANY GET YOUR CREDIT SCORE FREE CREDIT SCORE FREE CREDIT SCORE FREE CREDIT SCORE FIND FREE CREDIT SCORE COMPANY BUYING ON CREDIT CREDIT FRAUD PROTECTION HOW TO AVOID CREDIT FRAUD SCAMS

When are Free Annual Credit Reports available in my State? Eligibility for an annual free credit report is determined by your state of residence based on the rollout schedule set by federal law. Look below to see when a free credit report becomes available in your state through this website. Click Here To Receive Your FREE CREDIT REPORT.

Home        Credit Score       Sample Letters       Our Sponsors      Major Credit Bureaus

Major Credit Bureaus




EQUIFAX Credit Information Services
P.O. Box 740241
Atlanta, GA 303
1-800-685-1111

















EXPERIAN Credit Information Service (Formerly TRW)
955 American Lane
Schaumburg, IL 60173
1-888-EXPERIAN (397-3742)























TRANS UNION Corporation
P.O. Box 97328
Jackson, MS 39288-7328
1-800-916-8800











































Real Consumer Credit Improvement Services Real Credit Repair Quick Credit Repair Our Purpose  Our purpose is to provide consumers with detailed information to assist with improving their credit scores and to offer another credit alternative to prevent consumers from falling victim to costly credit repair scams.  The information we provide will equip you with important credit information and allow you the opportunity to improve your credit yourself.   You have now taken the first step to improving your credit score.  The information you are about to read will improve your financial situation immediately if applied successfully.  Our team of professionals are here to assist you.  Don't hesitate to call us at  if you have any questions about our services.   Topics Of Interest  How To Use This Credit Improvement Information Credit Ratings and Report Credit Bureaus What Your Credit Report Reveals Public Records:  Bankruptcies, tax liens, judgments and other filings Obtaining a Copy of Your Credit Report Knowing Your Legal Rights Repairing Your Credit Prepare a written protest to the credit bureau Keep a calendar Send a follow-up letter Request an updated credit report Compare the new report with the prior report Repeat the process Gaining Creditor Cooperation Study all the facts concerning each account and the nature of the negative ratings Contacting the creditor by telephone Confirming an Agreement with a Creditor to Change or Update a Negative Rating Confirming an Agreement with a Creditor to Pay Your Debts and Have Your Positive Credit Rating Restored Present a “win-win” offer Obtain an “open account” status Confirm your agreement in writing Honor your agreement Verify your credit upgrade Trying again Dealing With Serious Credit Problems How Credit Clinics Can Ease Bad Credit Bolstering Your Credit Record Tax Liens and Your Credit Rating Make sure the IRS sends you a Certificate of Release for each tax lien Conduct a complete lien search Review your credit report Add a Consumer Statement to your credit report Add a Consumer Statement Challenge a bankruptcy  How To Use This Credit Improvement Information   return to top  It is the goal of this Credit Improvement System to assist you in improving  your credit conveniently, efficiently and economically.  Nevertheless, it is important for you to properly use this System if you are to avoid future problems.  Always follow these instructions:  1. Carefully read all information, warnings and disclaimers concerning the forms in this System.  If, after thorough examination, you decide that you have circumstances that are not covered by the forms in this System, or you do not feel confident about preparing your own documents, then you should consult with an attorney immediately.  2. Follow the format recommended in the Sample Credit Improvement Correspondence.  Do not omit information.  3. Always use a pen or type on the documents.  Write neatly or print.  Never use a pencil. 4. Avoid reassures and “cross-outs” on final documents. 5. Correspondence forms should be reproduced on your own letterhead.  You can create your own letterhead simply by typing or printing your name, address and telephone number on the top/center of the form, as shown below.   [YOUR NAME]  [YOUR ADDRESS]  [CITY, STATE, ZIP CODE]  [TELEPHONE NUMBER]  6. Whenever the documents are to be executed by a partnership or corporation, the person signing should also print his/her name and title. 7. Always make copies of your important documents.  If you do not have access to a photocopier, keep a copy of your draft, or make another copy yourself.  Store all-important documents in a safe place and in a location known to your spouse, family, personal representative or attorney.   Credit Ratings and Report    return to top Since many of the things we want to buy must be financed or bought on credit, good credit is essential.  A vast network of credit reporting agencies keeps track of every American who does business or buys on credit.  Each time you apply for credit through a bank, store or credit card agency, the prospective lender typically checks your credit with one or more of these agencies before issuing you credit.  If your credit becomes bad, it is nearly impossible to avoid detection.  Credit Bureaus   return to top There are many credit bureaus in the United States, but only three large regional bureaus – Equifax, Experian and Trans Union.  The largest, Experian (formerly known as TRW), has processed over 35 million credit reports in the last year and boasts 50,000 business subscribers.  Many businesses and potential creditors pay to obtain your credit information contained in credit bureau files.  These businesses rightfully believe that the information contained in your credit file is a good indication of your creditworthiness.  How you have paid other creditors in the past is an indication of how you may act in the future.  The businesses also use the credit file to verify information on your credit application.  Businesses that most often deal with the credit bureaus are the commercial banks, credit card companies, larger savings and loans, major department stores and finance companies.  Utilities, hospitals, credit unions, oil company credit cards and checking and savings account information deal with credit bureaus less often.  Usually the same businesses that receive information about you also provide information to the credit bureaus.  When you submit a credit application to one of these businesses, the information in your application is forwarded to a credit bureau so that your credit file may be updated.  The transfer of account information involves sending the credit bureau computer disks that contain account information and any changes and additions to be made to your credit file every month or quarter.  This practice is intended to ensure that the credit bureau’s file are accurate and up-to-date.  However, not all businesses report what they know about you to the credit bureaus, (And of those that do, not all report the entire contents of their files.  Therefore, your file may be incorrect or out of date.)  What Your Credit Report Reveals  return to top Credit reports may vary slightly between agencies; however, most credit reports include personal identification information, account information, information obtained in public records, information about credit report request and a consumer statement.  Personal identification information:  Your full name; your last two addresses; your social  security number; your date of birth; and your place of employment.  Length of employment and income may not be reported.  Please note that if you are self-employed, a credit bureau may incorrectly list you as unemployed.  You will need to contact the credit bureau and instruct that your file be corrected.  Account information:  Credit issuer’s name; opening date of account; original balance/limit; current balance; terms of account; and the current status of the account.  A specific code system is used to describe the status of each item.  Public Records:  Bankruptcies, tax liens, judgments and other filings  return to top  Credit report requests:  Each time a creditor requests a copy of your report, it is recorded in your report.  If numerous requests are made and no subsequent accounts are opened, other potential creditors may assume that your credit application was turned down.  This may lead to some difficulty in obtaining credit.  Consumer statements:  A brief (100 words or less) explanation of any entry in your credit report that is written, and submitted to the credit bureau by you.  Obtaining a Copy of Your Credit Report  return to top Credit bureaus do make mistakes.  Therefore, it is important to check your credit report periodically so that inaccurate information can be corrected.  Information Required:  Credit bureaus routinely require the following information:  your full legal name; your current address; your former address; your social security number; your date of birth; and, if applicable, your spouse’s full legal name, social security number and date of birth.  You may call the credit bureaus to inquire about the specific information they require at the telephone numbers listed on the following page.  Fee if you have received a credit rejection within the past 60 days:  None.  Simply write a letter in the form of Sample Letter Number 1 to the credit bureau listed on the rejection letter and demand that the credit bureau provide you a free copy of your credit report.  Fee if you have not received a credit rejection within the past 60 days:  $8.00.  It would be wise to call the credit bureau to confirm that the fee has not changed.  Send a written request in the form of Sample Letter Number 2 to each of the credit bureaus listed below.  Since the information compiled and maintained by the credit bureaus differs, it is important to contact all three credit bureaus, particularly if you suspect that incorrect or inaccurate information appears in your credit file.  EQUIFAX Credit Information Services P.O. Box 740241 Atlanta, GA 303 EXPERIAN Credit Information Service (Formerly TRW) 955 American Lane Schaumburg, IL 60173  TRANS UNION Corporation  P.O. Box 97328  Jackson, MS 39288-7328  Knowing Your Legal Rights  return to top The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), 15 USC Sections 1681 through 1681t, protects you against credit abuse by granting you the following rights:  1. You may challenge the accuracy of your credit report at any time.  2. The credit bureau must “reinvestigate” anything you challenge within 30 days. 3. The credit bureau’s 30-day period begins when the credit bureau receives your notice of dispute, unless    you send the credit bureau additional information during the 30- day period.  In that event, the credit bureau may extend the deadline by 15 days. 4. If the credit bureau cannot confirm the adverse information or finds any error, it must promptly delete that erroneous information from your credit file. 5. If the credit bureau cannot or does not confirm the information you have challenged within a seasonable time period, it also must delete that information from your files. 6. If a creditor verifies the information and the credit bureau responds in a timely manner, the negative marks will remain on your record.  However, if you maintain that the statements is inaccurate or incorrect, then you have the right to submit a brief statement (called a “Consumer Statement”), that sets forth your explanation of the credit dispute.  Representatives of the credit bureau are available to assist you in writing a Consumer Statement.  Once your Consumer Statement is finalized, it will appear on every copy of your credit report that is sent out.  Repairing Your Credit  return to top  Review your personal information  Once you have received a copy of your credit report, review it carefully.  Check all spellings, numbers and dates.  Then proceed to the “Summary” or “Account Profile” section of your credit report to determine whether it contains any negative information.           Determine your overall credit score. ICS can provide you with your current score, for details Locate the “Summary” or “Account Profile” section on your credit report.  This section contains a summary rating for each of your accounts.  A summary may be positive, negative, or non-rated for each of your accounts.  “Positive” means that your payments are all on time.  “Negative” means you have a serious credit problem such as having defaulted on a debt.  “Nonrated” means that you may have a few late payments, which could place you in a weak position, even though there is nothing strongly negative in your credit report.  If you have any “Negative” or “Non-rated” ratings, then proceed to the section containing negative history remarks.  Negative remarks may appear in the following four sections:  Historical Status; Comments; Inquiries; and Public Records.  Make sure you review them all.  ..Locate the negative history remarks. ..Highlight or circle all of the negative remarks in your credit file. ..Locate the key to the coding symbols. ..Familiarize yourself with the coding symbols. ..Compare the highlighted or circled negative remarks to the coding symbols.  To fully repair your credit, you must protest, and eventually remove, all negative or non-rated profiles.  Prepare a written protest to the credit bureau  return to top To repair your credit, you must challenge any negative remarks that appear in your credit file.  You have the right to dispute any citation on your report if the information contained in that citation is inaccurate or incomplete.  (Fair Credit Reporting Act 15 USC Section 1681).  The only limitation to your dispute is that it should not be “frivolous or irrelevant.”  To begin preparing your written protest, refer to the Sample letter Numbers 3 and 4.  Remember to use a pen or type your letter and avoid erasures and “cross-outs.”  Use photocopies of each document as worksheets, or as final copies.  Create your own letterhead, as instructed previously.  Do not try to explain all of the negative ratings in one attempt.  Carefully list each negative rating that you want to challenge.  Next, set forth an explanation for or comment about each negative rating.  Even if the explanation is the same for all negative ratings, it is more effective if you repeat the same explanation several times for each negative rating.  Be sure to include photocopies of any documents you provide to support your claims.  These might include correspondence with your creditors, canceled checks indicating payment, receipts or other documents.  Explanations for negative ratings could be:  that your debt was satisfied and therefore should not be reported as a charge off; that the debt was paid, but the creditor failed to note this in your credit report; that a payment was delinquent due to a mix-up with the post office.  For example, you change your address and bills were not received even though a change of address was furnished; or something else.  Make a copy of your letter for your records.  Send your letter certified mail with return receipt requested so that you can be sure the bureau receives it.  It is also a good idea to include a copy of your credit report to make sure the bureau checks the right file.  Refer to Sample Letter Number 3 when your credit report contains incorrect information.  Refer to Sample Letter Number 4 if you are demanding a corrected and updated credit report.  Keep a calendar  return to top As soon as you mail your letter, log the date for each negative rating that you have protested.  Keep related disputes together in a file with a copy of the letter, the credit report and any other documents that you include with it.  Also calendar the date that the response is due.  By law, credit bureaus must respond within 30 days.  Send a follow-up letter  return to top If the credit bureau does not respond within 30 days, you should write a follow-up letter.  Point out that federal law requires the credit bureau to respond to a consumer dispute within 30 days of the reminder, write a final follow-up letter.  Refer to Sample Letter Number 6.  Failure of the credit bureau to respond in 30 days entitles you to have any negative mark on your report deleted provided it was one that you challenged.  Since many creditors won’t take the time or effort to defend the negative entry, you can eventually “repair” your credit through the default of your creditors.  Do not be discouraged if the credit bureau does not respond.  It is possible to eliminate negative marks simply by going through this process of disputing the negative ratings.  If the credit bureau fails to immediately provide an updated credit report, free of the disputed entry, you may notify the Subcommittee on Banking, Credit and Insurance and/or the Federal Trade Commission.  Both entities can bring legal action against the credit bureau.  Request an updated credit report   return to top At the end of every letter that you send to the credit bureau, ask them to send you an updated copy of your credit report.  Also request that the credit bureau send the updated credit report to anyone else who inquired about your credit.  15 USC Section 1681j of the FCRA requires the credit bureau to send a free notification of any updates to anyone who has received a copy of the report during the six-month period prior to any corrections or addition to your credit report. Note:  Credit bureaus are not required to send a copy of your entire report, but they will often do so because it is more convenient.  Compare the new report with the prior report   return to top Most credit bureaus will send you an updated report.  Compare carefully the updated report with the original one.  Mark all improvements that you find.  Highlight any negative rating that has changed to non-rated rating or any non-rated or negative ratings that have changed to positive ratings.  Chances are that you will not get results on every protest the first time.  But some progress is likely.  Repeat the process   return to top If negative ratings remain on your credit report, repeat the process.  If a dispute about a negative rating results in a more negative rating than before, do not be discouraged.  Go back to the beginning of the process and start again.  You should put your credit record through this process at least twice before going on to the next phase. Be patient, but persist.   Remember that credit cannot be rebuilt in a day.  It takes patience and persistence.  Also remember that during this process you must be very careful not to allow any new problems to appear on your record.  Keep all your accounts current or pay ahead of schedule.  Gaining Creditor Cooperation  return to top A credit bureau may not remove negative ratings if a creditor routinely cooperates with the credit bureau’s request (s) for verification.  In this event, you will need the creditor’s cooperation to remove the negative ratings.  You will have to persuade the creditor to soften its stance by either toning down or entirely deleting their remarks on your credit report.  Create an accurate record of your dealings with the remaining creditors who still give negative ratings.  List each creditor’s name, account number, negative credit remarks and any documents, correspondence or notes you have on your dealings with them.  Study all the facts concerning each account and the nature of the negative ratings   return to top Write a letter to each creditor explaining your version of how the problem arose.  Be specific and give all the relevant details, including full documentation.  Be factual, but also appeal to the creditor’s sense of good will.  Perhaps your company went bankrupt suddenly or you lost your job.  Or perhaps you became ill and were unable to work.  Remind the creditor that you eventually paid the delinquent amount.  Appeal to the creditor’s compassion and request that the negative ratings be removed or that a statement be included that the account is current.  Do not use lame excuses for late bill-payment habits.  Use strong, compelling reasons.  At the end of your letters always thank the creditors for their time and consideration.  Refer to Sample Letter Number 7.   Send the letter by certified mail, return receipt request.  Keep a copy of each letter.  Contacting the creditor by telephone   return to top If your creditor does not respond to your letters, use the telephone.  This will allow you to interact with the creditor in a more personal way.  Before you call, study the information you have gathered from your credit report, your creditor’s responses, and the accurate record of negative ratings that you compiled.  Then write a sample outline of every point that you want to make during your call.  Try not to become angry.  Remain calm and be polite.  If your first telephone call does not produce the results you want, do not give up.  Be persistent.  Ask to speak to another person or a manager.  Different people will react to you differently.  By speaking to more than one person, you may find someone who will relate to your problem more positively.   Confirming an Agreement with a Creditor to Change or Update a Negative Rating   return to top If a creditor agrees that a change in the rating is justified, ask the creditor to agree on the telephone that the change will be made in your credit status.  Be certain to obtain the creditor’s name and office address.  After your conversation, immediately send the creditor a letter confirming your agreement.  Refer to Sample Letter Number 9.  Send the letter, along with a self-addressed, stamped envelope.   The creditor should sign the letter and return it to you for your own records.  This letter is important if the creditor forgets to change your status or later changes his or her mind about helping you.  In that event, you can send the letter to the credit bureau yourself to repair your credit.   Confirming an Agreement with a Creditor to Pay Your Debts and Have Your Positive Credit Rating Restored   return to top If you have outstanding debts owed to a creditor and the creditor has placed negative ratings on your credit report, you may still be able to repair your negative credit.  Write a letter to the creditor, and express your interest in negotiating a repayment plan.  Explain sincerely your ability to make regular payments and pay off your debts.  If a particular circumstance led to your inability to pay, then you should describe that circumstance, assure the creditor that it will not happen again and repeat your desire to pay off your debts.  Be specific and give all the relevant details, including full documentation.  In return, you are going to ask your creditors to restore your positive credit rating.  It is always best to avoid having a debt turned over for collection.  If your account has been sent to a collection agency, deal first with the original creditor.  A collection agency receives a percentage of what it collects from you so it may be less willing to negotiate.  Rather, a collection agency will try to get as much cash as possible from you.  The creditor, on the other hand, may have already given up any expectation of full payment.  By dealing with the creditor, you may have more flexibility to negotiate the time or the amount to pay.  If you cannot avoid negotiating with the collection agency, use the following points. Which also apply to dealing with a creditor.  Present a “win-win” offer   return to top Keep in mind that your goal is to trade money for a positive rating on your credit report.  Perhaps you can offer to set up a payment schedule in exchange for a promise to improve your credit rating.  For example, you could agree to pay the entire amount owed in 12 monthly installments in exchange for the creditor agreeing to recognize your new bill paying commitment with better credit ratings.  Be specific.  Alternatively, you may agree that after three months of punctual payments a negative rating could be raised to a non-rating.  Perhaps after six months of regular payments, the non-rating could be lifted to a positive rating.   Obtain an “open account” status   return to top Even if you are making regular payments, a potential creditor may react negatively if your account is closed to further purchases.  Therefore, when you are negotiating an offer with your creditor ask him or her to reopen your account while you uphold your end of the agreement.  You can be very persuasive if you offer to pay the entire debt perhaps with interest or a service charge added.   Confirm your agreement in writing   return to top The “win-win” negotiation procedure can occur via a telephone conversation.  Once you have reached a verbal agreement, it is imperative that the agreement be put in writing.  Draft a letter that carefully lists all the points of agreements.  Refer to Sample Letter Number 10.  Do not exaggerate, embellish or take any liberties.  Then send the letter along with a stamped, self-addressed envelop.  Once the creditor signs the agreement and returns it to you, it can become part of your credit record.   Honor your agreement  return to top Now that you have a written agreement, you need only fulfill it and your credit rating will be restored.  So be punctual.  Make every payment on or ahead of time.  If your ability to meet the payment schedule in the agreement is threatened by unemployment or illness, inform your creditor right away, before you mail any payments.  Discuss your plans for meeting the payments with the creditor and explore ways to solve your temporary setback.  Verify your credit upgrade  return to top Remember to order an updated copy of your credit report to verify that the creditor has honored his or her side of the agreement and made the promised changes.  Allow a reasonable time period from the date the creditor agreed to make the change.  If the changes have not been made, you should immediately telephone the person with whom you made the agreement and remind that person of his or her promise.  If the creditor still fails to upgrade your credit rating, then you can effectively dispute the information on your credit report by sending the credit bureau a copy of the signed agreement.  Trying again   return to top If a creditor will not cooperate with you and the negative rating remains in dispute, then a Consumer Statement may be the only tool that can work in your favor.  However, you should remain persistent.  Wait a few months and repeat the process.  After a lapse of time, the situation may have changed.  You may find a more receptive person who is willing to help you regain a good credit rating.   Dealing With Serious Credit Problems  return to top If, in your financial past, you have encountered serious credit problems, such as bankruptcies, court claims, repossessions, or foreclosures, then these negative ratings may stick to your credit report, even after you try every method discussed above.  For these serious credit problems, remain patient.  You will be surprised at how much you can accomplish through persistence.  Be assured that as these events drift further into your past, they will become less significant in your credit history.  With the exception of a bankruptcy or tax lien, any adverse information more than seven years old must be deleted from your credit report.  A bankruptcy or tax lien may remain on your credit report for up to 10 years.  How Credit Clinics Can Ease Bad Credit  return to top This unique Credit Repair System is designed to help you repair your bad credit yourself.  Credit clinics use the same process.  They operate under the same reasoning discussed above – that each item on a credit report must be proven and that every negative rating on a credit report can be denied or challenged at any time.  Upon receipt of a denial or challenge, the credit bureau must then reinvestigate.  If the item cannot be reverified within 30 days, it is automatically removed from the file.  A credit clinic will instruct you to send a letter to the credit bureau similar to those discussed previously.  After a few months, the credit clinic will have you send another letter to the credit bureau starting the process all over again.  These credit clinics understand the value of persistence.  They will encourage you to continue this process until all of your negative items are removed.  Should you tire of the process, the credit clinic will recommend that you submit a Consumer Statement as discussed previously.   As you can see, you do not need to pay a credit clinic to repair your credit.  With this unique Credit Repair System you can easily and inexpensively do it yourself.   Bolstering Your Credit Record  return to top The law remains unclear about adding favorable items to a credit report.  However, the FTC has advised credit bureaus that, where a report has resulted in unfavorable action against you; you should be allowed to add to your credit report, thereby creating a more complete and balanced picture of your credit history.  Consequently, most credit bureaus will, for a small fee, contact any creditor you name and add that creditor’s information to your file.  The charge will usually run $2 to $3 per item.   If you have good credit with a company that does not report to a credit bureau, then you should contact that company.  Inform them that you need your account information listed on your credit report.  Once they agree to release your account record, tell them which credit bureau will contact them.  Do this for each good credit account you have.  Next, send a letter to the credit bureau with your list of non-reporting creditors.  Refer to Sample Letter Number 11.  Request that the credit bureau contact these creditors and add the items to your report upon verification of the information.  Once you have cleared your credit report of as many negative ratings as possible and added all possible positive ratings, you should have a new and improved credit report that will provide you with future credit as needed.  Tax Liens and Your Credit Rating  return to top A tax lien on your credit report will definitely hurt your chances when applying for significant credit, such as a loan to buy a home, business, car, boat or any other major purchase.  It may also prevent you from obtaining credit cards. Tax liens may not be erased from your credit report for 10 years.  However, a past tax lien is not as damaging as a current tax lien.  It is important to avoid having the IRS place a tax lien on your credit report.  It is equally important to ascertain that every credit bureau updates your credit history to show that past tax liens have been fully paid and discharged.  Make sure the IRS sends you a Certificate of Release for each tax lien  return to top Once you have fully paid your taxes, the IRS must send to you a Certificate of Release of Federal Tax Lien (Form 668Z) for each office that has a tax lien on file.  This may include the clerk of your city, town or county, the federal district court nearest where you reside and wherever real estate transactions for your locale are recorded.  If you have moved, there may be liens filed where you originally lived.  There may also be several tax liens for the same tax problems if the problems extend over several years.  Conduct a complete lien search  return to top To ensure that you obtain a Certificate of Release for each tax lien filed, you must conduct a complete lien search.  This can be accomplished by:  (1) requesting that the IRS send you copies of every lien the IRS filed against you; (2) having a commercial lien search service review the public records; (3) conducting your own lien search at the public recording office; or (4) reviewing your credit report.  Be aware, however, that a credit report may overlook some tax liens.   Once you are satisfied that you have identified all the recorded tax liens, make certain the IRS files a Certificate of release for each lien.  Do not assume the IRS will do this on its on accord.  Review your credit report   return to top For each recorded lien (not noted as discharged) you must insist that the reporting agency contact the IRS or check the public records to confirm that the lien has been released.  You may also send the credit bureaus copies of the Certificate of Release of Federal Tax Lien.  Follow up with the credit bureau to make sure your credit report reflects the discharge of all tax liens against you.   Add a Consumer Statement to your credit report   return to top If you are paying the IRS in installments, then your credit report can reflect the anticipated discharge of your lien because an agreement has been reached with the IRS.  As discussed above, you can submit a Consumer Statement to the credit bureau and insist that it accompany your credit report.   Challenge a tax lien  return to top As discussed above, it is possible to erase negative ratings, including existing and unpaid tax liens by challenging the tax liens.  Follow the same process for challenging negative ratings described above.  If the government does not substantiate the lien within the required 30 days, the credit bureau must delete the tax lien notice and cannot later reinstate it.   You will be most successful if you attempt to challenge the tax lien after your tax file has been transferred to the federal archives.  This transfer usually takes about a year and increases the turnaround time to retrieve the records, making it more difficult secret consumer credit repair software,free resources for bad credit repair fast, recent articles about credit repair, Credit Repair, build credit, damaged credit, New Guides Check Credit Rating Cheap Payday Loans Quick Links Reports  Dispute Letters  Repair Credit  Fix Credit  Erase Bad Credit  Clean Up Credit  Establish Credit Get Your FREE Credit Repair Electronic Kit or FREE credit Learn how to fix and repair your bad credit rating. Information on paying off your credit card and fixing your bad credit rating.Self-help credit report repair and update software. Site offers free sample credit report repair software, credit reports, new bankruptcy laws, Identity Theft credit bad credit, online credit report, credit card, debt, low interest, credit score, fix your credit report, credit bureau, eliminate credit card debt.Debt management, debt counseling, debt reduction, debt consolidation, spending habits, creating a budget, reducing expenses, credit cards, credit card fees, interest rates, credit counseling, debt counselors, credit counselors, bankruptcy, Manage Debt, 5 steps to credit repair, It's hard work to rebuild your credit rating. But it can be done., The Basics, Mary Rowland, repair,credit report repair,creadit repair services,credit report repair services,lexington law firms,lexinton law credit repair,lexington credit repair,credit repair service,credit repair company,repair bad credit,bad credit repair,legal credit repair,credit repair helpProtectionreport repair, credit report update, self-help software, free sample software, credit reports, bureau disputes, bureau letters, new bankruptcy law, ID Theft, Identity Theft information, Investment tools, mortgage loans, divorce or separation planning, financial planning, bankruptcy, tax lien, judgment Consultation with a Credit Repair Professional by CLICKING HERE.   Credit Repair Article Index   Credit InfoCenter's Free Guide "How to fix your credit for free, Step by Step"    Get Your Instant Personalized Credit Repair Tool. Completely anonymous, and it prints to the screen immediately.    Legal Credit Repair Services    Credit Repair Message Boards    Buy our new Book, "Good Credit is Sexy"    Do you know that you can sue the credit bureaus and win? It's a powerful tool for credit repair, and you could earn some easy cash, too!    How long does negative information stay on my credit report    A great way to deal with collection listings on your account - debt validation.    Erasing Inquiries    What to do if the credit agency is slow to respond    How to find out where to call or write a collection agency or creditor by using your credit report.    Always Handle Your Dispute Correspondence Via Registered or Certified Mail.    A Warning about Credit Repair Companies    Places to Fix your Credit For Free    If you have been treated unfairly by a creditor - resources on where to file complaints    The consumer's best friend when it comes to legal issues with your creditors - your state attorney general    The Fair Credit Reporting Act of Sept 30, 1997  CREDIT Repair FAQs, Credit Repair Kit, Places to Fix your Credit For Free, Erasing Inquiries, Credit card forgery, 10 Commandments of Credit RepairCredit Debt Essentials Credit Workshop Rapid Debt Reduction FREE Money Ideas Letter Formats 'How To' Helper Credit Offers Fico Scoring   Free Fico Score   Fico Score  CREDIT Repair FAQs, Credit Repair Kit, Places to Fix your Credit For Free, Erasing Inquiries, Credit card forgery, 10 Commandments of Credit Repair Increase Fico Score   Highest Fico Score   What are offers? Articles & Resources Bankruptcy & Settlement Budgeting & Frugality Credit Law Credit Reports and Scoring Debt Counseling Debt Reduction Financial Planning Fraud Getting Credit Learning About Money Military and Government Smart Shopping Students and Education Tips, Essentials, Archives Credit Repair Services  Credit Repair  Credit Repair Services  Free Evaluation  Credit Repair Fees  personal credit  credit card credit credit rating  consumer credit  credit repair errors scams Credit/Debt Management  credit report    company resources  information  guidance  fair credit  experian  equifax  fico  scoring  credit scoring  credit bureau  credit agency  cra  credit errors  report credit  scams consumer credit  consumer credit report  netguide linksGuarantee  Sign Up Online!  Repair Bad Credit  National Credit Repair  ____________  About Credit  Credit  Credit Scores  Consumer Reporting Agencies (CRAs)  Credit Repair - Do It Yourself?  Credit Counseling Organizations  Credit Repair Companies  Credit Laws, Acts & Rules  Bankruptcy  Credit and Divorce  Senior's Credit  Credit Repair Scams  Identity Theft  Advance Fee Loans  File Segregation Scams  Reestablish Credit  Credit Counseling  Debt credit repair, credit report repair, bad credit, credit report, credit repair services, credit history, repair credit, debt consolidationManagement  Debt Relief  Identity Theft  Payday Loans  Credit Ratings  Credit Scores  Credit Services  Cosigning Loan Instant Payday Loans Credit Scoring FICO Credit Score Debt Ratio Improve Credit Score Become Debt Free Obtain Free Copies of your Credit Report  Fix Errors & Inaccuracies on your Credit Reports  Raise your Credit Scores  Write Credit Dispute Letters  Get Removed from Chexsystems  Find a Non Chexsystems Banks  Protect yourself from Identity Theft credit card, Credit Card, credit cards, Credit Cards, credit card offers, credit cards, good credit, Visa, Mastercard, Unsecured, Negotiate your Credit Card Debt  Consolidate your Debt  Avoid Bankruptcy  Write Debt Settlement Letters/Debt Negotiation Letters  Write Validation of Debt Letters  Stop Creditor Harassment  Manage & Control your Debt  Reduce your Interest Rate or Monthly PaymentsSecured, card choices, instant approval, online application, build good credit, repair damaged credit, free consultation, law firm, credit card offers, credit card browser, credit card board, debt credit repair,real estate loans,mortgage rates,FHA loans, home equity loans, home loans, refinance loan, adjustable loan rate, mortgage loans, loan rates, fixed mortgage ratesconsolidationcorrecting personal credit reports,agencies how to clean-up trw reports, tips, experian REPORTS, equifax,trans union bureaus,free legal advice on removing negative information from my file, how to dispute payment history contained in TRW, check incorrect,chapter 7 bankruptcy from,remove chapter 13 bankruptcy,sources for consumer,help with how to correct,freeware for correcting,shareware for What is Credit Repair  Important Notice and Disclaimer  Shareware Notice  The Credit Business  Credit Reporting Agencies  Credit Reports  Inaccurate Credit Reports  Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)  How Long Items Stay on a Report  Improving Your Credit Report  Repair Your Credit  Important Mailing Instructions  Free Credit Reports Credit Reporting Agency Instructions  Ordering Online Obtain Your Credit Report  Review Your Credit Report  Dispute Incorrect Personal Information  Rank Questionable Items  Requesting Corrections  The Consumer Statement  The "New Credit File" Scam  Building Good Credit  Pre-Approved Credit Offer Opt-Out  Preventing Identity Theft  Check Your Credit Report Regularly  Stop Abusive Debt Collectors  Filing Suit  Negotiate and Settle Your Debts  Negotiate Your Credit Reporting  Take Advantage of No-call Lists  Letter Samples [download-able in Word format] Sample Letter 1 - Request for Credit Report  Sample Letter 2 - Dispute Letter  Sample Letter 2.5 - Dispute Letter - Unauthorized Inquiries  Sample Letter 3 - Follow-up to Dispute Letter  Sample Letter 4 - Notice of Intent to File Complaint  Sample Letter 5 - Dispute Letter to Credit Collector  Sample Letter 6 - Request for Procedure Description More Information and Resources Reviews of this Report  Consumer Credit Information fixing,bests sources of help software for getting rid of charge-offs,help remove liens,legally delete bad files,books on reporting standards,unauthorized inquiries,repossessions,foreclosure,free counseling,help,latest guides to,best selling software on,top selling bookso n,tips for correcting,tips about correcting,latest resources,latest information about, websites about,free guides to,new research dedicated to,supporting,links,forums about,Experian, Trans Union, Equifax,number one rated Georgia credit consolidation, counseling and management GA ACS provides credit counseling, credit consolidation, credit management, credit repair and free tips, help, services  and information about credit consolidators.  Add Credit Forum Repair Url Bad Credit Counseling Repair Bad Credit Repair In Canada Bad Credit Repair Service Best Credit Repair Best Credit Repair Letter California Credit Repair California Credit Repair Center Credit Florida Legal Charlotte Credit Lawyer Nc Consumer Credit Repair Credit Attorney Repair Credit Counselor Debt Free Credit Credit Forum Forum Credit Form Free Legal Repair  Credit Free Improve Repair Credit Houston Repair Texas Credit Improvement Information Credit Letter Repair Self Credit Links Loan Repair Tip Credit Repair After Bankruptcy Credit Repair Agency In Uk Credit Repair Attorney Lawyer Credit Repair Austin Texas Credit Repair Canada Credit Repair Card Europe Credit Repair Credit Report Credit Repair Dallas Fort Credit Repair Forum Credit Repair Forum Discussion  Credit Repair Info Credit Repair Lawyer Credit Repair Mortgage Credit Repair Service Credit Repair South Florida Credit Report Repair Services Fast Credit Report Repair Free Credit Repair Dallas Free Credit Repair Secrects Free Sample Credit Repair Lawsuit Against Credit Repair National Credit Repair Icr Quick Credit Repair Fix Repair Your Own Credit Report Your Own Credit Repair Biz Looking for a account bad credit repair? This page provides new information on account bad credit repair Waleska Rising Fawn Twin City Waverly Hall Arlington Bishop Union City Jekyll Island Inman Lenox Garden City Claxton Bethlehem Thomson Warner Robins Ila Statenville Villa Rica Louisville Demorest Oakwood Hoschton Douglasville Chickamauga Bowdon Springfield Folkston Jasper Cleveland Kings Bay Tifton Greensboro Silver Creek Kennesaw Thunderbolt Tucker Americus Woodstock Shellman Morganton Kensington Mc Rae Clayton Cordele Bartow Saint Marys Midville Elberton Fairmount Newton Richmond Hill Flovilla Greenville Carrollton Roopville Blue Ridge Blakely Bremen Eatonton Stockton Mount Vernon Buckhead Covington Pine Mountain Dublin Summerville Milledgeville Smyrna Rex Moultrie Clarkston Hiram Jesup Athens Marble Hill Suches Baxley Grantville Rome Rossville Locust Grove Buena Vista Mountain City Dudley Redan Sandersville Hinesville LaGrange Camilla Chatsworth Rocky Face Lula Adairsville Waycross Danielsville Cuthbert Avondale Estates East Point Newington Winterville Big Canoe Lawrenceville Ringgold Rincon Fairburn Appling Abbeville Jackson Fort Benning Waynesboro Warrenton Jacksonville Mableton Stone Mountain Tallapoosa Perry Franklin Springs Winston Woodbury Holly Springs Byron Oxford Auburn Cochran Tennille Mineral Bluff Tyrone Millen Lithonia Pearson Plains Newnan Augusta Monroe Lizella Tybee Island Lindale Matthews Roberta McCaysville Manchester Rockmart Royston Temple Crawford Lilburn Shady Dale Lumpkin Monticello Armuchee Doerun Hamilton Lithia Springs Jonesboro Griffin Lyons Alapaha Meldrim Brunswick Chamblee Duluth Madison Rock Spring White Gainesville Sale City Sylvester Sandy Springs Ambrose Bonaire Riverdale Saint Simons Island Flowery Branch Nashville Hampton Commerce Ellijay Zebulon Baldwin Columbus Bainbridge Sautee Nacoochee Peachtree City Norman Park Douglas Moreland Tiger Pooler Hazlehurst Lookout Mountain Franklin Weston  Dallas Canton Pelham Atlanta Kathleen Helen Glennville Wrens Lakemont Tate Whitesburg Stockbridge Hartwell Midway Dunwoody Buford Lake Park Lake City Woodland Forest Park Scottdale Murrayville Maysville Meigs Dacula Dahlonega Alamo Snellville Leesburg Surrency Port Wentworth Braselton Grovetown Wildwood Eastanollee Watkinsville Loganville Cumming Centerville Clermont Sylvania Ocilla Fort Oglethorpe Fargo Unadilla Blackshear Norcross Meridian LaFayette Savannah Sea Island Allenhurst Fitzgerald Martinez Vidalia Statesboro Gracewood Trenton McDonough Mount Berry Good Hope Dry Branch Cobb Fort Gordon Thomaston Clarkesville Fort Valley Wrightsville Sapelo Island Jefferson Roswell Forsyth Lincolnton Lexington Dawsonville Eastman Ashburn Ellaville Montezuma Hapeville Hardwick Evans Vienna Grayson White Plains Varnell Lebanon Quitman Crandall Senoia Dawson Dillard Tunnel Hill Cave Spring Talmo Powder Springs Hahira Hortense West Point Social Circle Rutledge Macon Calhoun Fort Gaines Sharpsburg Byromville Willacoochee Cobbtown Hawkinsville Albany Dalton Cedartown Ellenwood Doraville Cumberland Island Pembroke Metter Nicholls Brooks Sugar Hill Vinings Union Point Uvalda Rabun Gap Ailey Cairo Oglethorpe Young Harris Cartersville Decatur Colbert Crawfordville College Park Guyton Sardis Kingsland Ty Ty Thomasville Culloden Cohutta Toccoa Falls Donalsonville Davisboro Andersonville Dewy Rose Gray Austell Marshallville Fayetteville Lakeland Alpharetta Bogart Patterson Acworth Valdosta Comer Mitchell Epworth Lyerly Cornelia Mc Intyre Lavonia Conley Nahunta Conyers Taylorsville Ball Ground Palmetto Swainsboro Winder Coleman Suwanee East Ellijay Washington Barnesville Omaha Hiawassee Marietta Hoboken Blairsville Mount Airy Hephzibah Alma Reidsville Menlo Adel Morrow Tallulah Falls Darien Toccoa Berkeley Lake Here are a few credit consolidation and credit counseling articles. A few credit repair and credit management articles were recently included.   1. Where can I find debt managment credit counseling ? 2. Debt consolidation and Credit counseling 101 3. Top consumer credit counseling in the USA and Canada 4. credit counseling software 5. Info on non profit credit counseling services 6. debt credit counseling 7. Best financial advice on the web 8. 8 dirty tricks your credit card company can play 9. Local results for consumer credit counseling corp 10. More on credit counseling services 11. Credit got damaged? Now getting compensated for your loss 12. How to build a perfect credit 13. Budgeting 101 14. credit counseling organizations 15. How to run a consolidated credit counseling service? 16. Credit counselor is your best friend 17. The Do's and Don't on commercial credit counseling 18. Where can Christian go for consumer credit counseling? 19. List of christian credit counselors 20. Basics on credit consolidation 21. What is money management? 22. Where can I find credit card counseling services? 23. More details on debt management credit counseling 24. More on credit and debt counseling 25. Credit counseling - How to repair a bad credit history 26. free consumer credit counseling 27. Questions to ask your credit counseling corp 28. Where can I get free credit counseling? 29. Bankruptcy information and tips: 10 myths about chapter 13 and chapter 7 bankruptcy 30. Where can I find a good credit counseling program? 31. Credit Report: How To Read Your Credit Report 32. Free credit card tips 33. credit consolidators 34. credit counseling america 35. More on financing 36. Important tips on commercial credit counseling services 37. Credit counseling 101 38. Why bad debt shows up more than once on credit report? 39. What is government credit counseling? 40. More information on not for profit credit counseling 41. financial assistance 42. Basics on credit counselling 43. How to pay back your creditors? 44. How to get your finances in order 45. Different credit counseling solutions 46. Local credit counseling corporation 47. Where can I find a non profit consumer credit counseling? 48. credit counseling agencies 49. credit counseling service 50. Information on college credit counseling. 51. Where can a Christian go for credit counseling services? 52. creditor 53. credit counseling info 54. How to consolidate bills? 55. Easy way to consolidate debt 56. More info on non profit consumer credit counseling 57. Are the credit bureaus really helping you? 58. Find local credit reporting agencies 59. Basics about consumer credit counseling services 60. Featured avenue for consumer credit card counseling 61. What you credit counseling agency won't tell you? 62. Basics on consolidated credit counseling services 63. Credit bureau 101 64. free credit counseling services 65. Information on consumer counseling credit service 66. What is credit repair? 67. Free credit counseling information 68. Closest location of a consumer credit counseling bureau 69. Basics on personal finance 70. Where can I find credit consumer counseling service? 71. How to achieve financial freedom? 72. Sites for online credit counseling 73. credit counselors 74. Tips on using credit cards wisely 75. How to select the best credit counseling company? 76. Where can I find a consumer credit counseling agency? 77. Location for consumer credit counseling center 78. Local results for consumer credit counseling corporation 79. Basics on consumer counseling credit services 80. How to avoid identity theft? 81. Beacon score: 4 myths about your credit / beacon score 82. How to find the right family credit counseling service? 83. debt management credit counseling corporation 84. financial planning Consumer Credit Improvement Services a division of International Communication Systems, Inc.  Our Purpose  Our purpose is to provide consumers with detailed information to assist with improving their credit scores and to offer another credit alternative to prevent consumers from falling victim to costly credit repair scams.  The information we provide will equip you with important credit information and allow you the opportunity to improve your credit yourself.   You have now taken the first step to improving your credit score.  The information you are about to read will improve your financial situation immediately if applied successfully.  Our team of professionals are here to assist you.  Don't hesitate to call us at if you have any questions about our services.   Topics Of Interest  How To Use This Credit Improvement Information Credit Ratings and Report Credit Bureaus What Your Credit Report Reveals Public Records:  Bankruptcies, tax liens, judgments and other filings Obtaining a Copy of Your Credit Report Knowing Your Legal Rights Repairing Your Credit Prepare a written protest to the credit bureau Keep a calendar Send a follow-up letter Request an updated credit report Compare the new report with the prior report Repeat the process Gaining Creditor Cooperation Study all the facts concerning each account and the nature of the negative ratings Contacting the creditor by telephone Confirming an Agreement with a Creditor to Change or Update a Negative Rating Confirming an Agreement with a Creditor to Pay Your Debts and Have Your Positive Credit Rating Restored Present a “win-win” offer Obtain an “open account” status Confirm your agreement in writing Honor your agreement Verify your credit upgrade Trying again Dealing With Serious Credit Problems How Credit Clinics Can Ease Bad Credit Bolstering Your Credit Record Tax Liens and Your Credit Rating Make sure the IRS sends you a Certificate of Release for each tax lien Conduct a complete lien search Review your credit report Add a Consumer Statement to your credit report Add a Consumer Statement Challenge a bankruptcy  How To Use This Credit Improvement Information   return to top  It is the goal of this Credit Improvement System to assist you in improving  your credit conveniently, efficiently and economically.  Nevertheless, it is important for you to properly use this System if you are to avoid future problems.  Always follow these instructions:  1. Carefully read all information, warnings and disclaimers concerning the forms in this System.  If, after           thorough examination, you decide that you have circumstances that are not covered by the forms in this System, or you do not feel confident about preparing your own documents, then you should consult with an attorney immediately.  2. Follow the format recommended in the Sample Credit Improvement Correspondence.  Do not omit information.  3. Always use a pen or type on the documents.  Write neatly or print.  Never use a pencil. 4. Avoid reassures and “cross-outs” on final documents. 5. Correspondence forms should be reproduced on your own letterhead.  You can create your own letterhead simply by typing or printing your name, address and telephone number on the top/center of the form, as shown below.   [YOUR NAME]  [YOUR ADDRESS]  [CITY, STATE, ZIP CODE]  [TELEPHONE NUMBER]  6. Whenever the documents are to be executed by a partnership or corporation, the person signing should also print his/her name and title. 7. Always make copies of your important documents.  If you do not have access to a photocopier, keep a copy of your draft, or make another copy yourself.  Store all-important documents in a safe place and in a location known to your spouse, family, personal representative or attorney.   Credit Ratings and Report    return to top Since many of the things we want to buy must be financed or bought on credit, good credit is essential.  A vast network of credit reporting agencies keeps track of every American who does business or buys on credit.  Each time you apply for credit through a bank, store or credit card agency, the prospective lender typically checks your credit with one or more of these agencies before issuing you credit.  If your credit becomes bad, it is nearly impossible to avoid detection.  Credit Bureaus   return to top There are many credit bureaus in the United States, but only three large regional bureaus – Equifax, Experian and Trans Union.  The largest, Experian (formerly known as TRW), has processed over 35 million credit reports in the last year and boasts 50,000 business subscribers.  Many businesses and potential creditors pay to obtain your credit information contained in credit bureau files.  These businesses rightfully believe that the information contained in your credit file is a good indication of your creditworthiness.  How you have paid other creditors in the past is an indication of how you may act in the future.  The businesses also use the credit file to verify information on your credit application.  Businesses that most often deal with the credit bureaus are the commercial banks, credit card companies, larger savings and loans, major department stores and finance companies.  Utilities, hospitals, credit unions, oil company credit cards and checking and savings account information deal with credit bureaus less often.  Usually the same businesses that receive information about you also provide information to the credit bureaus.  When you submit a credit application to one of these businesses, the information in your application is forwarded to a credit bureau so that your credit file may be updated.  The transfer of account information involves sending the credit bureau computer disks that contain account information and any changes and additions to be made to your credit file every month or quarter.  This practice is intended to ensure that the credit bureau’s file are accurate and up-to-date.  However, not all businesses report what they know about you to the credit bureaus, (And of those that do, not all report the entire contents of their files.  Therefore, your file may be incorrect or out of date.)  What Your Credit Report Reveals  return to top Credit reports may vary slightly between agencies; however, most credit reports include personal identification information, account information, information obtained in public records, information about credit report request and a consumer statement.  Personal identification information:  Your full name; your last two addresses; your social  security number; your date of birth; and your place of employment.  Length of employment and income may not be reported.  Please note that if you are self-employed, a credit bureau may incorrectly list you as unemployed.  You will need to contact the credit bureau and instruct that your file be corrected.  Account information:  Credit issuer’s name; opening date of account; original balance/limit; current balance; terms of account; and the current status of the account.  A specific code system is used to describe the status of each item.  Public Records:  Bankruptcies, tax liens, judgments and other filings  return to top  Credit report requests:  Each time a creditor requests a copy of your report, it is recorded in your report.  If numerous requests are made and no subsequent accounts are opened, other potential creditors may assume that your credit application was turned down.  This may lead to some difficulty in obtaining credit.  Consumer statements:  A brief (100 words or less) explanation of any entry in your credit report that is written, and submitted to the credit bureau by you.  Obtaining a Copy of Your Credit Report  return to top Credit bureaus do make mistakes.  Therefore, it is important to check your credit report periodically so that inaccurate information can be corrected.  Information Required:  Credit bureaus routinely require the following information:  your full legal name; your current address; your former address; your social security number; your date of birth; and, if applicable, your spouse’s full legal name, social security number and date of birth.  You may call the credit bureaus to inquire about the specific information they require at the telephone numbers listed on the following page.  Fee if you have received a credit rejection within the past 60 days:  None.  Simply write a letter in the form of Sample Letter Number 1 to the credit bureau listed on the rejection letter and demand that the credit bureau provide you a free copy of your credit report.  Fee if you have not received a credit rejection within the past 60 days:  $8.00.  It would be wise to call the credit bureau to confirm that the fee has not changed.  Send a written request in the form of Sample Letter Number 2 to each of the credit bureaus listed below.  Since the information compiled and maintained by the credit bureaus differs, it is important to contact all three credit bureaus, particularly if you suspect that incorrect or inaccurate information appears in your credit file.  EQUIFAX Credit Information Services P.O. Box 740241 Atlanta, GA EXPERIAN Credit Information Service (Formerly TRW) 955 American Lane Schaumburg, IL 60173 TRANS UNION Corporation  P.O. Box 97328  Jackson, MS 39288 Knowing Your Legal Rights  return to top The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), 15 USC Sections 1681 through 1681t, protects you against credit abuse by granting you the following rights:  1. You may challenge the accuracy of your credit report at any time.  2. The credit bureau must “reinvestigate” anything you challenge within 30 days. 3. The credit bureau’s 30-day period begins when the credit bureau receives your notice of dispute, unless    you send the credit bureau additional information during the 30- day period.  In that event, the credit bureau may extend the deadline by 15 days. 4. If the credit bureau cannot confirm the adverse information or finds any error, it must promptly delete that erroneous information from your credit file. 5. If the credit bureau cannot or does not confirm the information you have challenged within a seasonable time period, it also must delete that information from your files. 6. If a creditor verifies the information and the credit bureau responds in a timely manner, the negative marks will remain on your record.  However, if you maintain that the statements is inaccurate or incorrect, then you have the right to submit a brief statement (called a “Consumer Statement”), that sets forth your explanation of the credit dispute.  Representatives of the credit bureau are available to assist you in writing a Consumer Statement.  Once your Consumer Statement is finalized, it will appear on every copy of your credit report that is sent out.  Repairing Your Credit  return to top  Review your personal information  Once you have received a copy of your credit report, review it carefully.  Check all spellings, numbers and dates.  Then proceed to the “Summary” or “Account Profile” section of your credit report to determine whether it contains any negative information.           Determine your overall credit score. ICS can provide you with your current score, for details Locate the “Summary” or “Account Profile” section on your credit report.  This section contains a summary rating for each of your accounts.  A summary may be positive, negative, or non-rated for each of your accounts.  “Positive” means that your payments are all on time.  “Negative” means you have a serious credit problem such as having defaulted on a debt.  “Nonrated” means that you may have a few late payments, which could place you in a weak position, even though there is nothing strongly negative in your credit report.  If you have any “Negative” or “Non-rated” ratings, then proceed to the section containing negative history remarks.  Negative remarks may appear in the following four sections:  Historical Status; Comments; Inquiries; and Public Records.  Make sure you review them all.  ..Locate the negative history remarks. ..Highlight or circle all of the negative remarks in your credit file. ..Locate the key to the coding symbols. ..Familiarize yourself with the coding symbols. ..Compare the highlighted or circled negative remarks to the coding symbols.  To fully repair your credit, you must protest, and eventually remove, all negative or non-rated profiles.  Prepare a written protest to the credit bureau  return to top To repair your credit, you must challenge any negative remarks that appear in your credit file.  You have the right to dispute any citation on your report if the information contained in that citation is inaccurate or incomplete.  (Fair Credit Reporting Act 15 USC Section 1681).  The only limitation to your dispute is that it should not be “frivolous or irrelevant.”  To begin preparing your written protest, refer to the Sample letter Numbers 3 and 4.  Remember to use a pen or type your letter and avoid erasures and “cross-outs.”  Use photocopies of each document as worksheets, or as final copies.  Create your own letterhead, as instructed previously.  Do not try to explain all of the negative ratings in one attempt.  Carefully list each negative rating that you want to challenge.  Next, set forth an explanation for or comment about each negative rating.  Even if the explanation is the same for all negative ratings, it is more effective if you repeat the same explanation several times for each negative rating.  Be sure to include photocopies of any documents you provide to support your claims.  These might include correspondence with your creditors, canceled checks indicating payment, receipts or other