Dispute LexisNexis Info: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Dispute Inaccurate Information on LexisNexis: A Complete Guide

Finding inaccurate information on LexisNexis can be frustrating, especially when it impacts your personal or professional life. The good news is you have the right to dispute these inaccuracies. This guide provides a step-by-step process, covering everything from identifying the errors and gathering supporting documentation to submitting a compelling dispute and following up effectively.

This guide is based on thorough research and personal experience. Let’s dive in to clear your name and gain peace of mind.

Understanding Your Rights and the Problem

LexisNexis compiles information for risk management and background checks, used by insurance companies, potential employers, and other entities. Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), you have specific rights:

• Access: You can access your LexisNexis reports.
• Dispute: You can dispute inaccurate or incomplete information.
• Correction/Deletion: Inaccuracies must be corrected or deleted.
• Summary of Rights: You are entitled to a summary of your rights under the FCRA.

LexisNexis acts as a data aggregator, pulling information from various sources. Errors often originate elsewhere, but LexisNexis is responsible for ensuring accuracy.

Common types of inaccurate information include:

• Incorrect Addresses: Outdated or invalid addresses.
• Mistaken Identity: Information belonging to someone with a similar name.
• Inaccurate Employment History: Incorrect dates, positions, or companies.
• Erroneous Legal Filings: Misrepresented lawsuits, judgments, or bankruptcies.
• Outdated or Expunged Records: Information that should no longer be reported.

Why This Matters

Inaccurate information on LexisNexis can have significant consequences:

• Denied Credit/Loans: Lenders assess risk using this information.
• Increased Insurance Premiums: Insurance companies factor in risk profiles.
• Job Rejections: Employers use background checks during hiring.
• Damaged Reputation: Inaccurate information can impact your professional standing.

Obtaining Your LexisNexis Reports

Before disputing, you need to know what information LexisNexis has on file. Here’s how to get your reports:

1. Identify the LexisNexis Company: LexisNexis has divisions dealing with different data types. Common ones include:
   • LexisNexis Risk Solutions: Focuses on risk management and fraud prevention.
   • Accurint: Used for locating individuals and assets.
2. Requesting Consumer File Disclosure: Procedures vary. Visit their website or contact them directly. Look for “consumer file disclosure” or “access my report”.
3. Provide Identification: Provide your full name, address, date of birth, Social Security number (or partial SSN), and a government-issued ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.) for verification.
4. Review the Report: Review every detail meticulously, paying attention to addresses, employment history, legal filings, and personal identifiers.

Identifying and Documenting Inaccuracies

This is where the detective work begins.

• Highlight Inaccuracies: Highlight or note any incorrect or incomplete information. Be specific.

• Gather Supporting Documentation: Crucial. Provide evidence to support your claim. Examples include:

  • Address Discrepancies: Utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, or change-of-address forms.
  • Employment History: Pay stubs, W-2 forms, offer letters, termination letters, or letters from former employers.
  • Legal Filings: Court documents, dismissal notices, or expungement orders.
  • Mistaken Identity: Copy of your social security card, copy of your birth certificate, and/or an updated copy of your driver’s license.

• Create a Detailed List: Compile a list of each inaccurate item and the corresponding documentation.

Filing Your Dispute with LexisNexis

Now, for the main event: filing the dispute. LexisNexis typically offers a few ways to do this:

1. Online Dispute Portal: Often the fastest. Look for a “dispute” or “correct information” link on the relevant LexisNexis website and follow the instructions, uploading your documentation.
2. Mail: Send a written dispute letter by certified mail with return receipt requested. Include copies of your supporting documentation (never send originals).
3. Phone: Generally not recommended as it’s harder to track. If you call, get the representative’s name and a reference number.

What to Include in Your Dispute Letter (or Online Submission):

• Your Full Name and Address: Use your current address.
• LexisNexis Report Reference Number: Helps them locate the specific report.
• Clear Identification of the Inaccurate Information: State exactly what is wrong and where it is located.
• Explanation of the Inaccuracy: Explain why the information is incorrect.
• Request for Correction or Deletion: Request the information to be corrected or deleted.
• Copies of Supporting Documentation: Attach copies of all your supporting documents.
• Your Signature and Date: Important for formal correspondence.

Sample Dispute Letter Snippet:

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]

[Date]

LexisNexis Risk Solutions
[Address found on their website]

Subject: Dispute of Inaccurate Information in Consumer Report - [Report Reference Number]

Dear LexisNexis Risk Solutions,

I am writing to dispute inaccurate information in my consumer report, reference number [Report Reference Number], which I received on [Date you received the report].

Specifically, the report incorrectly lists my previous employer as Acme Corp. I have never worked for Acme Corp. My correct employment history is documented in the attached W-2 form from [Correct Employer] for the relevant period.

I respectfully request that LexisNexis Risk Solutions investigate this matter and correct or delete the inaccurate information from my report as soon as possible.

Sincerely,

[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]

Following Up and Escalating Your Dispute

The FCRA requires LexisNexis to investigate your dispute within 30 days (or 45 days if you provide new information). They must notify you of the results in writing.

• Track Your Dispute: Keep records of all communications.
• Follow Up: If you don’t hear back within the required timeframe, follow up.
• Review the Results: Review the results. If LexisNexis agrees, they should correct or delete the information.
• If the Dispute is Unsuccessful: You have several options:
  • Re-dispute: Re-dispute with new or stronger evidence.
  • File a Complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB): The CFPB can investigate complaints.
  • Consult with an Attorney: Consider legal action if the inaccurate information is causing significant harm.

My Experience & Quick Fix

The inaccurate information stemmed from an old business address mistakenly linked to my name, affecting my business loan. I identified the source as a LexisNexis Risk Solutions Business Background Check report.

What I did:

1. Identified the Source: It was in a LexisNexis Risk Solutions Business Background Check report.
2. Gathered Proof: I assembled copies of my current business license, articles of incorporation showing the correct address, and a notarized affidavit stating that I had never operated a business at the incorrect address.
3. Submitted via Certified Mail: I opted for certified mail because I wanted to ensure they received it. I used the sample letter format outlined above, but made it very specific about the inaccuracies.
4. The Turning Point: After about 2 weeks, I hadn’t heard anything. So, I called LexisNexis Risk Solutions directly. Speaking to a live person, I politely but firmly reiterated my dispute and asked for a timeline. I emphasized that the incorrect information was impacting my business loan application.
5. The Fix: The representative put me on hold and then came back saying they would expedite the investigation. Within 48 hours, I received an email confirming the correction and a revised report.

My Quick Fix: Don’t just rely on submitting the dispute passively. A polite, persistent phone call can work wonders in moving the process along. It showed them I was serious and that the error had real-world consequences.

Preventing Future Problems

Preventing inaccuracies is even better than disputing them. Here are some tips:

• Regularly Monitor Your Credit Reports: Check your credit reports from all three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) at least once a year.
• Review Your Online Presence: Conduct regular searches of your name online to see what information is publicly available. If you find inaccuracies, contact the website or data provider to request corrections.
• Be Mindful of Your Information: Be careful about the information you share online and with third parties. Only provide information that is necessary and ensure that you are using secure websites and applications.
• Consider Opting Out: Some LexisNexis products allow you to opt out. Check with each division to see if this is an option.

Cost Analysis: Disputing LexisNexis Information

By understanding your rights, monitoring your information, and being prepared to dispute inaccuracies, you can protect your reputation and financial well-being. It requires diligence and persistence, but the peace of mind is worth it. And remember, based on my own experience, sometimes a little persistence goes a long way!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)?

The FCRA is a federal law that protects consumers by promoting the accuracy, fairness, and privacy of information in the files of consumer reporting agencies. It gives you the right to access your reports, dispute inaccuracies, and have errors corrected or deleted.

How long does LexisNexis have to investigate my dispute?

Under the FCRA, LexisNexis is required to investigate your dispute within 30 days (or 45 days if you provide new information). After the investigation, they must notify you of the results in writing.

What can I do if LexisNexis refuses to correct the inaccurate information?

If LexisNexis refuses to correct the information, you have several options: re-dispute with additional information, file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), or consult with an attorney.

Is there a cost associated with disputing information on LexisNexis?

The vast majority of disputes can be resolved without incurring significant costs. Potential costs include fees for obtaining reports (some are free), certified mail, notary fees (if needed), and attorney fees (if you choose to hire one).

What types of inaccuracies are commonly found on LexisNexis reports?

Common inaccuracies include incorrect addresses, mistaken identity, inaccurate employment history, erroneous legal filings, and outdated or expunged records.