When it comes to credit repair, individuals often have various questions and concerns. Here are some common ones:

1. Is Credit Repair Legal?
   • Yes, credit repair is legal. Consumers have the right to dispute inaccurate or incomplete information on their credit reports. However, it’s important to be cautious of fraudulent practices and companies that make unrealistic promises.
2. How Long Does Credit Repair Take?
   • The time it takes to see results from credit repair can vary. The credit bureaus typically have 30 days to investigate disputes. However, it may take several months of disputing to see significant changes in your credit score.
3. Can I Repair My Credit on My Own?
   • Yes, individuals can dispute inaccuracies on their credit reports without the assistance of a credit repair company. You have the right to dispute errors directly with the credit bureaus and the information provider.
4. Do Credit Repair Companies Guarantee Results?
   • No legitimate credit repair company can guarantee specific outcomes. Be wary of companies that promise to remove accurate negative information or guarantee a certain increase in your credit score.
5. How Much Do Credit Repair Services Cost?
   • Credit repair companies typically charge fees for their services. These fees can vary widely, so it’s essential to understand the cost structure before engaging with a credit repair service.
6. Can I Remove Accurate Negative Information?
   • It is challenging to remove accurate negative information from your credit report. Credit repair focuses on disputing inaccuracies. However, negative but accurate information, like late payments or bankruptcies, may stay on your report for a set period.
7. What Are Some Red Flags of Credit Repair Scams?
   • Be cautious if a company:
     • Promises guaranteed results.
     • Asks for payment upfront before any services are provided.
     • Advises you to create a new credit identity.
     • Does not inform you of your legal rights and what you can do on your own.
8. Can Credit Repair Improve My Credit Score?
   • Credit repair can potentially improve your credit score by addressing inaccuracies on your credit report. However, the impact will depend on various factors, and there are no guarantees of a specific score increase.
9. Should I Close Old Accounts to Improve My Score?
   • Closing old credit accounts can impact your credit utilization ratio and the length of your credit history, which are factors in your credit score. In some cases, it may be better to keep old accounts open.
10. How Often Can I Dispute Information on My Credit Report?
    • There is no strict limit on how often you can dispute information, but it’s generally advisable to dispute only when you have valid reasons and new information.