When watching television, listening to the radio, reading the newspaper or browsing the internet you are likely to see many ads that claim they can fix your bad credit. Some of these companies are fraudulent. It is possible for you to begin to repair your own credit history. Here are some tips to help you.

STEP ONE- Inform the consumer report agency in writing about the information thought to be inaccurate. You should enclose copies of the original paperwork that support your claims. This letter should clearly provide your full name, address and clearly identify each item that is disputed.

Next, sincerely request that the items in dispute to be removed from your credit file. It is a good idea to send this document by certified mail.

Consumer reporting agencies are required to consider and forward those items in dispute, in about 30 days. Then, when the information contributor receives notice concerning the disagreement from the reporting agency, it examines and evaluates the pertinent information and finally reports the outcome back to the consumer agency.

After that, the company has to provide the client with the consequences along with the name, contact number and address of information provider, in writing. If any item is to be deleted or changed, the company cannot place the doubtful information back again in the folder unless that information provider confirms it to be accurate and comprehensive.

Step Two: Of course there will be times that the disputed information will be considered accurate and timely. At this point, your next step is to turn to the creditor. Send the documentation (copies) to the creditor concerning the items in dispute.

Remember to include photocopies of all the original documents. The majority of providers will have a specific address for disputes. When the provider reports an item to a consumer reporting agency, it has to include a notice of your dispute.

Check out yourself

It is recommended by some consumer advocates to occasionally review your credit statement for the following reasons:

1- The credit information influence getting insurance or loan, and also how much one would have to compensate for it.

2- To make sure that your credit report is correct in advance before applying for a mortgage or a car loan.

3- To prevent identity theft, so that no one can use other's personal identifying data, like name, social Security number, credit card Id for committing crimes. Identity thieves sometimes use other's personal information for criminal purposes, so everyone should be careful about it.

Inaccurate credit and bad credit will affect your chances of getting insurance (higher rates), credit (higher interest) and at times, even a job.

That is the basics about credit repair. You have to have patience because at times credit agencies can be a little uncooperative. It is nothing to worry about. Just take your time and be careful. Educate yourself and you will be able to handle those credit problems yourself.