If you are just starting your credit repair journey......here are a few of the basic first steps to get you going.
1. Opt Out!
This is a very important step when repairing. This will keep you somewhat hidden from CAs and stop all promotional inquiries on your reports. You can opt out temporarily or permanently (and you can always opt back in if you choose).
Go here to opt out
2. Order your reports DIRECTLY from TU, EX and EQ.
This way you can see EXACTLY what is on your reports. (You can always do third party monitoring later but those reports don't always show all of the details you will need to see).
*If you cannot afford to buy your reports, you can always get your free annual report.........BUT if you dispute with these, the investigation will take 45 days (+5 days for mail) instead of the normal 30 day(+5 days) investigation. This can possibly lessen your chances for a deletion.
3. Update and delete personal information on your reports.
Make sure your address is current. Dispute any name variations, old addresses, SS # variations, employment information and/or phone numbers. Basically get as much personal info deleted as possible. It only enables them to identify you more easily.........which makes it easier for them to verify disputed debts.
4. Wait for steps #1 and #3 to be completed.
Opting out takes about 2-3 weeks and disputing the personal info could take up to 30 days.
While you are waiting on this you can start reading up on your state laws, the FDCPA, FCRA and FCBA.........and of course read the posts here on the board and feel free to post questions if you have any.
5. Triage your reports.
Now you need to figure out your plan of attack. Find out which debts are out of your state's SOL first. IMO, those are the best ones to start off with. These are the debts being reported that can no longer be collected on (i.e. you cannot be sued). You can dispute a few at a time (recommended) or you can do a blanket dispute which just means to dispute EVERYTHING and see what falls off (some have actually had luck with this).
6. Wait and READ.
Keep reading and keep learning! Credit repair is not difficult but it can be overwhleming. The more you read, the more you will understand and empower yourself.
Welcome and Good luck!
Stick around and don't hesitate to ask questions if there is something you do not understand in the Credit Repair Forums
Edited and Created by Trish - 29 January 2007