Check identity information, accounts, balances, payment history, inquiries, and public-record sections.

Why it matters

A credit report is the underlying record; a credit score is a model’s summary of record data.

What to focus on

  • Review all bureaus
  • Dispute factual errors
  • Keep copies
ExampleAn account you do not recognize or an incorrect late payment should be investigated with supporting records.

Put it into practice

  • Use the authorized official report source
  • Highlight errors
  • Follow the bureau dispute process
Write down one decision and schedule a short review. Small, repeatable steps are easier to maintain than a one-time overhaul.
Educational information only. Money in Reach does not provide financial, investment, tax, insurance, credit, mortgage, or legal advice.