How to dispute a collection account

A collection is a debt a company says you owe that was sent to (or sold to) a collector. If something about it is wrong, you have the right to dispute it.

1. Get your reports

Download your free reports from all three bureaus at annualcreditreport.com. The same collection can look different at each bureau.

2. Check every detail

Look at the balance, the dates, and the status. Is it really yours? Is the balance right? Is the date of first delinquency shown? Is it listed twice? Is it older than seven years from when you first fell behind? Paid medical collections, and medical collections under $500, should not appear on reports from the three bureaus.

3. Dispute what is wrong, and only what is wrong

Write to the bureau and explain exactly what is inaccurate and why, with copies of proof. The bureau generally has 30 days to investigate (sometimes 45). You can also dispute directly with the collector that reports the account.

4. Track the answer

The bureau must send you the results. If it says the information was verified and you still believe it's wrong, you can ask how it was verified.

Good to know

Paying a collection doesn't remove it; it will usually show as paid. Disputing information you know is accurate isn't allowed, and it doesn't work.