Errors on your credit report can have a lasting impact on your financial future. Whether it’s a debt that isn’t yours, a balance that’s been paid off, or a mistaken late payment, inaccurate credit reporting can lead to loan denials, higher interest rates, and lost job opportunities. At Martin & Bontrager, APC, we help clients in Los Angeles take action when the information on their credit report is incorrect or misleading.
How Credit Report Mistakes Happen
Mistakes on credit reports can arise from a variety of sources. Creditors may report inaccurate details, identity theft may result in unauthorized accounts, or the credit bureaus themselves may merge your file with someone else’s. These errors often go unnoticed until a major financial event—such as applying for a mortgage or auto loan—reveals the problem. Regardless of the cause, consumers have a right to dispute inaccurate or incomplete information.
Your Right to Dispute Under Federal Law
Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), you have the right to dispute errors directly with the credit reporting agencies. Once notified, they are required to investigate the claim, typically within 30 days. If the information is found to be inaccurate, it must be corrected or removed. Unfortunately, this process doesn’t always work the way it should. Disputes may be ignored or resolved without proper review, leaving consumers frustrated and with no clear path forward.
When Disputes Are Mishandled
When credit bureaus or furnishers of information fail to investigate disputes or continue to report false data, legal action may be necessary. A poorly handled dispute can keep damaging information on your report for years, impacting your ability to move forward financially. That’s where Martin & Bontrager, APC steps in. We assist clients in gathering evidence, communicating with credit bureaus, and pursuing claims when their rights have been violated.
Moving Forward with Confidence
You don’t have to accept a credit report that misrepresents your financial history. If your efforts to correct the issue have been ignored or mishandled, it may be time to take legal steps. Martin & Bontrager, APC provides support for Los Angeles residents facing credit reporting disputes—helping them restore accuracy and take back control over their financial reputation.
