How to spot and fix credit report errors before they hurt your score

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Your credit report forms the backbone of your credit score and determines how lenders judge you. Even minor errors—wrong name spellings, incorrect account status or duplicate loans—can dent your score by 50-100 points, limit loan size, raise interest rates or cause outright rejections.

Step 1: Download and review your credit report

Start by getting your free annual credit report from any of the four major Indian credit information companies. Then check the following:

· Your personal details: name, PAN, date of birth, address.

· Status of closed loans: ensure they’re reported as “closed” not “active”.

· Duplicated or mis-assigned accounts: sometimes loans to someone else show up in your file.

Step 2: Pick out errors and gather evidence

Highlight each item that looks wrong. For example: a loan you terminated but is still reported active, or a card shown as default though you paid everything. For each, collect supporting proof—closure letters, payment receipts, email or SMS confirmations. These help when you register a dispute.

Step 3: Raise a dispute with the credit bureau and lender

Go to the website of the credit bureau listed on your report, find the “Dispute” or “Rectification” section, and submit a dispute for each error. Upload documentation and clearly explain the inaccuracy. Under Indian regulations, the bureau must investigate and respond—typically within 30 days. At the same time, it’s wise to contact the lender who originally reported the data and request correction from their end.

Step 4: Track the resolution and ensure updates reflect

After you’ve raised the dispute, monitor its status. The bureau will show the item as “Under Dispute” until the process finishes. Once corrected, buy a fresh report (you’re entitled to one free re-issue) and ensure the narrative has changed to reflect the accurate status. For example, “Closed on xx/yy/zz” instead of “Active” or “Delinquent”.

Step 5: Protect your history and avoid future mistakes

A clean credit file is not just about fixing past errors—it’s about maintaining good habits. Keep EMI payments timely, keep credit-card utilisation low, avoid

too many new applications in a short span, and check your report every 6-12 months. Consistent behaviour ensures your file stays error-free and your credit score stays strong.

Bottom line

Errors in your credit report aren’t rare. But they’re fixable—and they matter. By reviewing your report, raising disputes, securing documentation and maintaining disciplined credit behaviour, you take control of your credit history. A cleaner record improves borrowing chances, lowers costs and gives you better financial freedom.