It’s becoming more difficult for people to correct legitimate errors on their credit reports
A recent investigation by ProPublica reveals that correcting mistakes on credit reports is becoming significantly harder, creating challenges for Americans seeking loans, housing, or employment. The report highlights a sharp decline in the number of complaints resolved in consumers’ favor by two of the three major credit bureaus.
In 2024, Experian approved nearly one in five complaints submitted through the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). By last year, that approval rate had plummeted to less than 1%. TransUnion experienced a similarly steep drop. Equifax, however, did not see the same decline.
The investigation links much of the change to policies under the Trump administration, which have “drastically curtailed” the CFPB’s operations. Under new director Russell Vought, the agency has implemented mass layoffs, frozen investigations, and reduced enforcement actions. Consumer advocates warn that without the CFPB applying regulatory pressure, credit bureaus have less incentive to thoroughly investigate disputes. Since early 2025, over 2.7 million complaints filed with the CFPB have received no resolution.
Credit bureaus argue the situation is more nuanced. They say many disputes are submitted by credit-repair firms or automated systems trying to remove accurate negative information. Still, critics say that legitimate complaints are being ignored, leaving consumers to pursue lawsuits or seek help from state attorneys general to correct errors.
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