Instead, the FTC recommends writing a letter and sending it and copies of supporting documents via certified mail to the credit bureau.

WSJ: Getting Going: How to Fix a Credit-Report Error

It also supports a parasitic economy of card marketers, credit scorers, collection agencies, junk-mail printers, letter carriers, financial reform lobbyists and yacht-sailing antitrust lawyers.

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Here's why: In the next few months, you may get a letter from your credit card company, insurance agent, or broker that looks like a piece of junk mail.

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