Credit glossary
Consumer statement
A brief note you can add to your credit file explaining your side of a dispute that the bureau's investigation didn't resolve.
Under 15 U.S.C. 1681i(b), if a reinvestigation doesn't settle your dispute, you can file a short statement about it, and the bureau may limit it to 100 words if it helps you write a clear summary. After that, later reports containing the disputed item must flag the dispute and include your statement or a summary, unless the bureau reasonably believes the dispute is frivolous or irrelevant.
A statement doesn't change the account data that scores read, so don't expect it to move a number. It's most useful when a person will review your file, such as a manual mortgage underwriter or a landlord, and when you have a real disagreement you can document. Keep it factual and short. If you can prove the item is wrong, a new dispute with evidence does more.
Guides that go deeper
- Your dispute came back "verified": what to do nextA verified result doesn't end your options. Ask how it was verified, dispute with the furnisher, add a statement, complain, or call an FCRA attorney.
- How to dispute a credit report error, step by stepA step-by-step guide to disputing credit report errors with Equifax, Experian and TransUnion: online vs. mail, what to include, and how to keep proof.
Sources
- 15 U.S.C. 1681i: Procedure in case of disputed accuracy, Legal Information Institute, Cornell Law School
- Disputing Errors on Your Credit Reports, Federal Trade Commission
This is education, not legal or financial advice. Spot an error? Tell us and we'll fix it.