Credit Myths & Facts
Myth: Checking your own credit hurts your score
Fact: Checking your own credit report is a "soft inquiry" and does not affect your score.
Myth: Paying off a collection removes it from your report
Fact: Paying a collection updates the status to "paid" but the account typically remains on your report for 7 years from the date of first delinquency.
Myth: You only have one credit score
Fact: You have dozens of credit scores. FICO alone has multiple versions, and each bureau may report different information.
Myth: Disputing accurate information will get it removed
Fact: Under the FCRA, bureaus must investigate disputes and remove or correct information that is inaccurate, incomplete, or unverifiable. Accurate information that is properly verified will remain.