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.