CrestMantleCRESTMANTLE GUIDE
How to Review Your Credit Report
Start with the original reports. Review one report at a time, record the source and date, and keep a short list of items that need another look.
Get your reports from the authorized source
Use AnnualCreditReport.com to request your reports from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Keep the files in a private location and record the date you obtained each report.
Check the fields that tell the story
- Identity details. Review the names and addresses associated with your file. An old address you recognize is different from an address you have never used.
- Accounts. Compare the lender name, open or closed status, and payment history against statements you already have.
- Balances. Compare the date on the report with the statement date. A payment made after an account’s reporting date may explain a difference.
- Unfamiliar activity. Record accounts or inquiries you cannot identify and verify the name with the company through an official contact channel.
Keep a short review log
For each possible issue, write down the bureau, the account or field, what the report shows, and the record you would use to check it. If the same item appears in more than one report, track each bureau separately. When you have a specific error and supporting records, use the dispute preparation checklist.