How to Get Rid of a Hard Inquiry on Your Credit Report
Discover a structured approach to managing specific hard inquiries on your credit report, from identification to resolution.
A hard inquiry occurs when a lender checks your credit file for a new credit application. These inquiries can impact your credit score and remain on your report for up to two years.
Identifying Hard Inquiries on Your Credit Report
Obtain copies of your credit reports from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. You are entitled to a free copy from each bureau once every 12 months through AnnualCreditReport.com. Reviewing these reports helps identify inaccuracies.
Examine the section listing hard inquiries. Each inquiry shows the name of the inquiring entity and the date. Only unauthorized, erroneous, or duplicate inquiries are eligible for dispute. For example, an inquiry from a lender you never applied to, or one from identity theft, is a candidate for removal.
A company name on the report might differ slightly from what you recognize, or an inquiry might result from increasing a credit line. Verify such inquiries directly with the creditor if unsure. Legitimate inquiries remain on your report for two years, even with a small score dip.
Preparing Your Dispute Documentation
Gather all necessary documentation before initiating a dispute. You will need personal identification, such as a government-issued ID and proof of your current address, like a utility bill or bank statement.
Collect copies of the credit report sections displaying the disputed inquiry. Highlight or mark the entry. Any evidence supporting your claim that the inquiry was unauthorized or erroneous is also necessary. This might include a statement from the lender confirming you never applied for credit or a police report if identity theft is suspected.
Ensure you have the exact dates and the full name of the entity associated with the inquiry, as this information is required for the dispute form or letter. Only send copies of documents, never originals, as they will not be returned.
Initiating the Dispute with Credit Bureaus
Submit your dispute to the credit bureaus once documentation is prepared. Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion offer various methods for dispute submission, including online portals, mail, and phone. Online submission is often the fastest, though some issues may require a phone call or mail.
To dispute online, visit the credit bureau’s website and navigate to their dispute center. You will need to create an account or sign in, then follow prompts to identify the disputed inquiry and upload your supporting documents. If opting for mail, download the bureau’s dispute form, complete it with all relevant details, and include copies of your supporting evidence. Sending disputes via certified mail provides a record of delivery.
When calling a credit bureau, a dispute specialist can guide you and inform you of any specific documents required. Clearly state you are disputing an unauthorized or erroneous hard inquiry and provide precise details.
Navigating the Dispute Resolution Process
After submitting your dispute, the credit bureau is required to investigate the claim within 30 days. This timeframe can extend to 45 days if you submit additional documentation. During this period, the credit bureau contacts the entity that reported the inquiry to verify its accuracy.
The credit bureau communicates investigation findings in writing, via mail or online portal updates. Outcomes include the inquiry being removed if inaccurate or unauthorized, or it may remain if verified as legitimate. If the information is an error, the furnisher must notify all three credit bureaus to correct their records.
If you disagree with the outcome, you can contact the data furnisher directly with proof or resubmit the dispute with further evidence. You can also add a brief statement of dispute to your credit file, which other entities requesting your report will see. After the dispute, check your credit reports again to confirm changes.