Introduction

Identity-theft corrections require prompt, documented action. Below is a practical, prioritized workflow I use in practice to reduce damage and speed restoration. Follow each step and keep copies of every communication.

Step-by-step checklist

  1. Get your credit reports
  • Order free copies from AnnualCreditReport.com (the official source for Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) and review every line for unfamiliar accounts or inquiries. (AnnualCreditReport.com)
  1. Create an Identity Theft Report
  • Go to IdentityTheft.gov and follow the guided steps to report the fraud and generate a free Identity Theft Report and recovery plan. This report is accepted by creditors and credit bureaus as proof of identity theft. (IdentityTheft.gov)
  1. Place a fraud alert or credit freeze
  • Place an initial fraud alert (90 days) or an extended fraud alert (7 years if you have an Identity Theft Report) by contacting one credit bureau; federal law requires that bureau to notify the other two. A credit freeze prevents most new accounts from being opened until you lift it. Both are free. See the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau for details. (CFPB)
  • For step-by-step procedures and timing, see our guide on How to Secure a Fraud Alert and Credit Freeze.
  1. Contact affected creditors and close fraudulent accounts
  • Call the fraud department of each creditor that reports unauthorized activity. Ask them to close or block the account, stop collection activity, and send a written confirmation of their action.
  • If a creditor won’t cooperate, escalate to their compliance or legal department and include your Identity Theft Report.
  1. Dispute inaccurate items with each credit bureau
  • Send a dispute to Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion for each fraudulent tradeline. Include:
    • A brief dispute letter referencing the specific account or entry
    • A copy of your Identity Theft Report from IdentityTheft.gov
    • Proof of identity (government ID, utility bill)
    • Any creditor statements or police reports that show the fraud
  • Mail disputes by certified mail with return receipt when possible, and keep copies of everything.
  • Credit bureaus generally investigate within 30 days and must correct or remove proven inaccuracies. For details on timelines and evidence, see our article on How Credit Report Disputes Work: A Step-by-Step Guide.
  1. File a police report when appropriate
  • If your case involves significant monetary loss or criminal activity, file a local police report and attach it to disputes and creditor communications. Some creditors require a police report before they remove accounts.
  1. Follow up and document
  • Track dispute case numbers and follow up at 30, 60, and 90 days. If a bureau or creditor confirms deletion, get written confirmation and a corrected credit report snapshot.
  1. Re-check your reports
  • After resolutions, re-order reports to confirm fraudulent entries are removed and that no new unauthorized accounts have appeared.

Professional tips from practice

  • Prioritize accounts that affect your score most (collections, charge-offs, new credit lines). In my experience, removing a few high-impact tradelines yields the biggest score recovery.
  • If a creditor resists removal, ask them to mark the account as “fraudulent” or place a statement of dispute on your file.
  • Consider a credit freeze for long-term protection; use fraud alerts if you need to keep credit applications moving.
  • Use the official websites (AnnualCreditReport.com and IdentityTheft.gov) to avoid scams.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Failing to document: Keep dated copies of every email, letter, and call log.
  • Only disputing with one bureau: Fraudulent accounts can appear on any or all three reports—dispute with each.
  • Not using the Identity Theft Report: It speeds creditor cooperation and extends alert options.

When to get professional help

If you face repeated identity-theft activity, complex fraud (tax or business identity theft), or significant financial loss, consult a consumer attorney or a specialized identity-theft resolution service. I recommend escalating when creditors refuse to remove demonstrable fraud or when you need help drafting formal dispute packages.

Authoritative sources

Disclaimer

This article is educational and not personalized legal or financial advice. For advice specific to your case, consult a qualified attorney or certified credit counselor.