Equifax Credit Dispute Letter: Free Template and Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

Disputing errors on your Equifax credit report begins with a clear letter. It should list inaccuracies, request an investigation under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), and include supporting documents. Send it by certified mail to Equifax Information Services LLC, P.O. Box 740256, Atlanta, GA 30374 (address from 2018; verify current details on the Equifax website for 2026). Equifax must investigate within 30 days per FCRA §611, though the process may take 30 to 45 days with written notification of results. You can also dispute online at equifax.com or by phone, but mail provides proof for FCRA protections.

This guide helps U.S. consumers obtain free reports, draft the letter using an FTC-backed template, choose submission methods, and track outcomes. Free Equifax reports are available six times per year through 2026 via their website or phone, plus one from AnnualCreditReport.com.

Check Your Equifax Credit Report for Errors First

Before drafting a dispute letter, review your Equifax credit report to pinpoint errors like wrong accounts, outdated information, or incorrect balances. The FTC confirms you can access six free Equifax reports per year through 2026 by visiting the Equifax website or calling 1-866-349-5191. One additional free report is available weekly from AnnualCreditReport.com, authorized by federal law.

To get started:

1. Visit equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services or call 1-866-349-5191 for your free Equifax report.
2. Use AnnualCreditReport.com for a combined report from Equifax and other bureaus.
3. Download and print the report, highlighting specific errors such as account numbers, dates, or balances that seem inaccurate.

Spotting these details ensures your dispute letter targets precise issues, prompting Equifax to investigate under FCRA requirements.

Key Elements of an Effective Equifax Credit Dispute Letter

An effective letter follows the structure from the FTC sample letter, which aligns with FCRA §611 obligations for a 30-day investigation. Include your full name, address, and the last four digits of your Social Security number at the top. Add Equifax's dispute address as the recipient.

Key components:

• Subject line: "Disputing Information in Credit Report" to clearly signal the purpose.
• List of disputed items: Detail each error with account numbers, dates, and why it's inaccurate (e.g., "Account #1234 listed as open since 2020, but closed in 2022").
• Investigation request: State, "I request a thorough investigation and deletion or correction if unverifiable," referencing FCRA §611.
• Enclosures: List copies of supporting documents like payment statements or identity proof (send copies, not originals).
• Closing: Request updated reports post-investigation per FCRA §1681i.

Here's a free template adapted from the FTC:

[Your Name]  
[Your Address]  
[City, State, ZIP Code]  
[Your Phone Number]  
[Date]  

Equifax Information Services LLC  
P.O. Box 740256  
Atlanta, GA 30374  

Subject: Disputing Information in Credit Report  

Dear Sir or Madam:  

I am writing under FCRA §611 to dispute the following items on my credit report:  
1. [Describe item 1, e.g., "Account #XXXX with XYZ Bank, dated MM/DD/YYYY, balance $X,XXX – incorrect as account closed."]  
2. [Describe item 2.]  

Enclosed are copies of [list documents, e.g., "statement showing closure"]. Please investigate and delete or correct unverifiable information. Send updated reports to the above address.  

Sincerely,  
[Your Name]  
[Last 4 digits of SSN]  

This format triggers Equifax's formal review process under FCRA §611.

How to Send Your Equifax Dispute Letter (Mail, Online, Phone)

Choose your method based on needs: certified mail for FCRA-proof documentation versus online or phone for speed.

• Mail: Best for formal disputes needing proof of receipt. Send to P.O. Box 740256, Atlanta, GA 30374 via certified mail with return receipt (verify address on Equifax for 2026). Retain copies and tracking.
• Online: Log in at equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services/credit-dispute/, upload documents, and submit digitally for faster processing.
• Phone: Call 1-866-349-5191 to initiate verbally, but follow up in writing for FCRA protections.

All methods invoke FCRA §611 timelines.

What Happens After You Submit Your Equifax Dispute

Equifax must complete the investigation within 30 days under FCRA §611 (up to 90 days maximum in some cases), providing verification details within 15 days of starting. Their process typically takes 30 to 45 days, followed by written notification of results, including any changes.

Expect:

• Results mailed to you, with explanations if items remain.
• Free updated Equifax reports upon request post-investigation (FCRA §1681i).
• Notification to furnishers (e.g., lenders) if changes occur.

Track via certified mail receipt or your Equifax online account. If unsatisfied, consider next steps like adding a statement of dispute to your file.

FAQ

Where do I mail an Equifax credit dispute letter?

Mail to Equifax Information Services LLC, P.O. Box 740256, Atlanta, GA 30374 using certified mail (verify for 2026 on their site).

How long does Equifax take to investigate a dispute?

Typically 30 to 45 days, aligning with the FCRA's 30-day requirement (up to 90 days max).

Can I get free Equifax credit reports before disputing?

Yes, six per year through 2026 via the Equifax website or phone, plus one from AnnualCreditReport.com.

What should I include in my Equifax dispute letter?

Subject line "Disputing Information in Credit Report," list of errors, investigation request under FCRA §611, enclosures, and your contact details.

Does the FCRA require Equifax to investigate my dispute?

Yes, FCRA §611 mandates a 30-day investigation of valid disputes.

Obtain your free Equifax report today via equifax.com or AnnualCreditReport.com, then draft and send your dispute to start the process.