What happens if I dispute a debt with the credit bureau?
If you dispute a debt with a credit bureau in California, the bureau must investigate the debt and report to you the result of the investigation. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requires credit bureaus to properly investigate any disputed debts within 30 days. If the bureau finds that the debt is incorrect or inaccurate, they must delete it from your credit report. If they find that it is valid, they must report it to you as correct. If the bureau is unable to verify the debt or the information it has reported, the debt must be deleted. In addition, any third-party collectors that the bureau notified of the debt must be notified that the debt has been deleted. If the debt is verified by the credit bureau, you can still dispute the debt. This dispute must include information as to why you believe the debt to be incorrect or inaccurate. The bureau must then provide you with a written explanation of their results of the reinvestigation. If the bureau finds that the debt is incorrect or inaccurate, it must delete it from your credit report. You may also be able to receive compensation from the credit bureau for any damages resulting from errors in your credit report. It’s important to understand the law on debt collection in California and to be aware of your rights when it comes to disputing a debt.
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