How to dispute directly with the creditor or collector
Last updated: Sources checked: September 2026
You can dispute inaccurate information directly with the creditor or collector that reported it, the furnisher, instead of or in addition to disputing with a bureau. The rules for these disputes come from section 623 of the Fair Credit Reporting Act and a CFPB regulation, 12 CFR 1022.43, known as Regulation V.
A direct dispute is useful when the problem started with the furnisher, such as a payment the creditor misapplied, or when a bureau dispute came back “verified.”
How a direct dispute works
The furnisher must conduct a reasonable investigation of a dispute that falls under the rule, review the information you send, and report the result. If the information is found inaccurate or incomplete, the furnisher must notify each bureau it reported to and correct it.
Once a furnisher knows you dispute information directly, it may not keep reporting that information to a bureau without noting that you dispute it.
Where to send it
Send the dispute to the address the furnisher provides for disputes. It is often on your credit report next to the account, on your billing statements, or on a notice the furnisher sends. If you cannot find a dispute address, use the one printed for the account on your report, and send it by certified mail.
What to include
- Your name, address, and account number.
- Which information is inaccurate, and why.
- Copies of your proof.
- What you want done: correct the information and notify the bureaus.
- A statement that you are disputing the account directly with the furnisher under the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
Keep copies of the letter and proof of delivery.
How long it takes
The furnisher generally has 30 days from receiving the dispute to investigate, and it may take up to 15 more if you send additional relevant information during the period. Keep your proof of delivery so you know when it started.
Disputing with both
A direct dispute does not stop you from also disputing with the bureaus. Filing with both means the bureau sends its own dispute notice to the furnisher while your direct dispute reaches the furnisher too. Note which you sent, and when.
When a furnisher says no
The furnisher may reply that the information is correct, or it may not respond. You can add a statement of dispute to your file, file a CFPB complaint, and speak to a consumer attorney. See your dispute came back verified.
Do this today
Find the dispute address for the account on your report or statement, and write it in your notes next to the account.