Credit reporting: FCRA
The FCRA governs accuracy, permissible purpose, access, disputes, and identity-theft blocking in consumer reports.
// practical playbook
Use the right law for the right problem—and keep the facts at the center.
Educational information, not legal or financial advice. Verify deadlines and requirements with the relevant agency, creditor, court, or a qualified professional.
// action plan// 01 // 02 // 03 // 04
Debt collection: FDCPA
The FDCPA governs covered third-party debt collectors, including validation notices, communications, and prohibited practices.
Billing errors: FCBA
The FCBA provides a process for certain open-end credit billing errors; timing and the billing address matter.
State protections
States may add licensing, limitation periods, exemptions, damages, and communication rules. Use your regulator and attorney general as primary sources.
// before you act
Use this checklist.
- Identify who acted: bureau, furnisher, original creditor, or collector.
- Write down the event date and deadline.
- Save the source document and delivery proof.
- Escalate facts, not copied legal jargon.
// next best action