Reinvestigation
Reinvestigation refers to the process initiated by a credit bureau or data furnisher to review and verify the accuracy of information on a credit report after a consumer files a dispute regarding an item they believe is incorrect or incomplete. This is evaluated within Credit Report Errors & Disputes.
Plain-Language Meaning
A reinvestigation is when a credit bureau or information provider takes a second look at a disputed entry on a credit report to determine if it is accurate, usually after a consumer raises a concern about a possible error.
Practical Example
If you notice an account on your credit report that you do not recognize and submit a dispute, the credit bureau will conduct a reinvestigation to check with the original creditor or data source to confirm whether the information is correct or needs to be updated or removed.
What It Does Not Mean
Reinvestigation does not mean a full audit of your entire credit report or a legal investigation; it is a targeted review of specific items that have been formally disputed by the consumer.
How the System Uses It
The system uses reinvestigation as a formal process to address consumer disputes about credit report entries. When a dispute is filed, the credit bureau contacts the data furnisher to verify the information in question. The outcome of the reinvestigation determines whether the disputed item is corrected, deleted, or remains unchanged on the credit report.
Common Misconceptions
- “Reinvestigation guarantees the removal of disputed items.” The process only results in removal or correction if the information is found to be inaccurate or unverifiable.
- “Reinvestigation covers your entire credit report.” Only the specific items identified in the dispute are reviewed during reinvestigation.
- “Reinvestigation is handled by government agencies.” Credit bureaus and data furnishers, not government agencies, conduct reinvestigations.
Related Pages
Related Glossary Terms
FAQ
- How long does a reinvestigation take? A reinvestigation typically takes up to 30 days from the date the dispute is received, though it may be extended to 45 days if additional information is provided by the consumer.
- What happens if the information cannot be verified during reinvestigation? If the information cannot be verified, it must be removed from the credit report.