Step #7: Dispute problem areas wherever possible

If you have inaccurate information on your credit report and you've unsuccessfully tried to correct it with the creditors, lodge a complaint with the credit bureau.

By law, they have to remove the disputed item for 30 days. If they can't find evidence to corroborate your story, they will put the bad mark back on your report, BUT you can then insert a 100-word note within your credit report. You can also have the word "disputed" listed next to any item on your report with which you disagree.

Whatever you do, don't just sit back and do nothing. These are your rights and it's up to you to fight for your credit!

Next: Good credit is the foundation of your financial house ...