Fixing errors: about 30–45 days
When you dispute an item, the credit bureau generally has 30 days to investigate (FCRA §611). It can take up to 45 days if you send more information during that time, or if you're disputing after getting your free annual report. Then the bureau must send you the results, usually within 5 business days.
If an item is wrong or can't be verified, it must be fixed or removed. Many people see changes within one or two months. If a dispute is denied, you can send more proof and dispute again, or dispute directly with the company that reported it.
Rebuilding after accurate negative items: months to years
Late payments, charge-offs and collections that are reported correctly can stay up to 7 years. Their effect on your score fades over time, especially as you add new on-time payments.
- Pay every bill on time — payment history matters most.
- Keep credit card balances low compared to your limits.
- Don't open many new accounts at once.
- Check your reports from all 3 bureaus regularly at annualcreditreport.com.
Be careful of promises
No one can legally remove accurate, up-to-date information from your report. Be wary of anyone who promises to "delete everything" or wipe your credit fast.