FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
This FAQ is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Results may vary. Be sure to retain copies of all your letters, reports, and communications for your records.
What is Credit Repair?
It’s the process of correcting errors and improving how your credit is reported. It doesn’t erase legitimate debts, but it can help remove inaccurate, outdated, or unfair information.
Can anyone guarantee results?
No. Credit bureaus and furnishers make the final decisions. You have the right to dispute, but deletions are not guaranteed.
How long does credit repair take?
Investigations typically take 30 days per dispute cycle, but complex cases may take several months.
How do I get my credit reports?
You can pull free reports from Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion once every 12 months at AnnualCreditReport.com
Will checking my own credit hurt my score?
No. Personal checks are soft inquiries and do not affect your score.
What’s the difference between a credit report and credit score?
Your report is the detailed file of accounts and history. Your score is a number (300–850) calculated from that report.
What can I dispute?
Any inaccurate, incomplete, duplicate, or outdated account. Examples: wrong balances, late payments that weren’t late, accounts that aren’t yours.
How do I send disputes?
By mail is best—use certified mail with return receipt and keep copies.
How long do bureaus have to respond?
Usually 30 days, sometimes 45 if you provide additional documentation.
Do I have to pay a debt I don’t recognize?
No—ask for validation in writing before paying. Collectors must prove the debt is yours and accurate.
Will paying off collections improve my score?
It depends. Paid collections may still show as negative. Some lenders weigh them less, and newer scoring models ignore paid collections.
What’s a “pay for delete”?
An agreement (in writing) where a collector removes the account once payment is made. Not all agencies agree to this.
How can I build credit if I don’t have any?
Options include secured credit cards, credit-builder loans, or being added as an authorized user on someone else’s card.
Should I close old accounts?
Usually no—closing old accounts can hurt your credit age and utilization.
How much of my credit limit should I use?
Keep balances under 30% of limits, ideally under 10% for the best impact.
What laws protect me?
The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) governs your credit reports, and the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) limits how collectors can treat you.
Can debt collectors harass me?
No. They can’t use threats, obscene language, or call before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m. without permission.