Knowledge is power. Learn how your score is calculated, how to improve it, and what your rights are under the law.
A credit score is a three-digit number, typically ranging from 300 to 850, designed to represent your credit risk, or the likelihood you will pay your bills on time.
Lenders use this number to determine whether to approve you for a loan, mortgage, or credit card, and what interest rate you will be charged. The most commonly used scoring model is the FICO® Score, which breaks your credit profile down into five key categories.
The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) dictates that credit bureaus must report information that is 100% accurate, complete, and verifiable. If an item fails to meet these criteria, it must be removed.
We leverage these consumer protection laws by analyzing your report for errors, inconsistencies, and compliance violations. We draft custom, legally binding dispute letters challenging the bureaus and creditors to prove the accuracy of collections, late payments, charge-offs, bankruptcies, and more. When they fail to verify the data within 30 days, the negative item is deleted by law.
Payment history makes up 35% of your score. Set up autopay for minimum balances so you never miss a 30-day reporting window.
Try to keep your credit card utilization below 30% of your total limit. Paying down revolving debt is the fastest way to boost your score.
Closing an old account reduces your available credit and shortens your average credit age. Keep old, no-fee cards open and active.
| Negative Item | Reporting Time |
|---|---|
| Late Payments | 7 Years |
| Collections / Charge-offs | 7 Years |
| Foreclosures | 7 Years |
| Chapter 13 Bankruptcy | 7 Years |
| Chapter 7 Bankruptcy | 10 Years |
| Hard Inquiries | 2 Years |
*We can legally challenge these items to have them removed earlier if they contain inaccuracies.
By law, certain personal information cannot be factored into your credit score, protecting you from discrimination. The following data is completely excluded from your FICO calculation:
Talk directly with a Dispute Levels advisor. We'll review your report, explain your options, and build a plan completely free.
Take the first step towards true financial freedom and independence today.
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