TransUnion Ignoring Your Credit Dispute? Here's What To Do (2025 Expert Guide)

By Joeziel Vazquez,

CEO & Board Certified Credit Consultant (BCCC, CCSC, CCRS)

Published: September 25, 2024 | Last Updated: October 31, 2025

Reading Time: 12 minutes

You submitted a credit dispute to TransUnion weeks ago. You've been checking your mailbox daily, refreshing your email, and logging into your TransUnion account—but nothing. No acknowledgment. No investigation results. No resolution. Just silence.

If TransUnion is ignoring your credit dispute, you're facing one of the most frustrating situations in consumer credit. But here's what they don't want you to know: when TransUnion ignores your dispute, they're likely violating federal law—and you have powerful legal remedies at your disposal.

After 17 years as a Board Certified Credit Consultant and helping thousands of consumers through credit bureau disputes, I've seen every tactic credit bureaus use to avoid their legal obligations. This guide provides the exact strategies I use to force TransUnion to respond, properly investigate disputes, and correct credit report errors.

Why TransUnion Ignores Credit Disputes

Before we dive into solutions, let's understand why this happens. TransUnion processes millions of disputes annually, and several factors contribute to ignored or mishandled disputes:

Volume Over Accuracy

TransUnion prioritizes processing speed over thorough investigation. Their automated dispute systems often reject legitimate disputes or route them incorrectly, causing your complaint to disappear into their bureaucratic maze.

The "Frivolous" Classification Loophole

TransUnion may classify your dispute as "frivolous" without proper review, allowing them to ignore it completely. Under the FCRA, they're not required to investigate disputes they deem frivolous—but they frequently abuse this exception.

Inadequate Investigations

Even when TransUnion claims they investigated, many disputes receive only cursory review. They often simply verify information with the data furnisher without examining your supporting documentation or considering the evidence you provided.

The Stall Letter Tactic

TransUnion sometimes sends what industry insiders call "stall letters"—correspondence that requests additional information unnecessarily or claims they need more documentation, even when you've provided everything required. This delays the investigation and may cause you to miss critical deadlines.

System Errors and Lost Documentation

Electronic dispute systems can malfunction, mail gets lost, and documents submitted online may not attach properly. TransUnion has faced multiple lawsuits alleging their systems routinely fail to process disputes correctly.

Your Rights Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)

The Fair Credit Reporting Act (15 U.S.C. § 1681 et seq.) provides you with powerful legal protections. Understanding these rights is essential when TransUnion ignores your dispute:

30-Day Investigation Requirement

TransUnion must complete their investigation within 30 days of receiving your dispute (45 days if you submit additional documentation during the investigation). This isn't a suggestion—it's federal law.

Duty to Conduct Reasonable Investigation

TransUnion cannot simply verify information with the creditor and call it a day. They must conduct a reasonable investigation that reviews all relevant information, including your supporting documentation.

Mandatory Response Requirement

TransUnion must notify you of the investigation results in writing. If they make changes to your report, they must provide a free copy of your updated credit report.

No-Frivolous Determination Limitations

While TransUnion can refuse to investigate truly frivolous disputes, they cannot use this as a blanket excuse. They must have a legitimate basis for this determination and notify you of the specific reason.

Right to Add Consumer Statement

If TransUnion refuses to correct information you believe is inaccurate, you have the right to add a 100-word statement to your credit file explaining the dispute. This statement must be included in future credit reports.

Recent TransUnion Settlement: What You Need to Know

In July 2025, a federal court granted final approval to a $23 million class action settlement against TransUnion for systematically failing to properly investigate credit disputes. This landmark settlement affects consumers who received TransUnion's "502 Letter" in response to hard inquiry disputes between December 5, 2016, and January 31, 2025.

What the Lawsuit Revealed

The class action lawsuit (Norman v. Trans Union, LLC, Civil Action No. 2:18-cv-05225-GAM) exposed that TransUnion:

• Failed to contact companies that pulled consumers' credit reports without permission

• Refused to remove disputed hard inquiries even when consumers provided evidence

• Sent standardized "502 Letters" instead of conducting proper investigations

• Violated FCRA requirements for reasonable investigations

Settlement Details

Eligible class members received between $20 and $160, depending on the harm suffered. More importantly, TransUnion agreed to change how it handles hard inquiry disputes, implementing new procedures for proper investigation.

What This Means for Your Dispute

This settlement proves what I've been telling clients for years: TransUnion's dispute handling procedures have been systematically flawed. If your dispute has been ignored or inadequately investigated, you may have similar grounds for legal action.

Step-by-Step: What to Do When TransUnion Ignores Your Dispute

Step 1: Verify Your Dispute Was Received (Days 0-7)

Action: Confirm TransUnion received your dispute.

If you filed online:

• Log into your TransUnion Service Center account

• Check for a confirmation number or acknowledgment

• Take screenshots of your submission confirmation

If you filed by mail:

• Check your certified mail tracking (you DID send it certified mail, right?)

• Verify delivery confirmation

• Calculate the 30-day deadline from the delivery date

Pro Tip: Always dispute via certified mail with return receipt requested. Electronic systems fail, but USPS tracking creates an indisputable paper trail.

Step 2: Send a Follow-Up Inquiry (Days 7-14)

If you haven't received acknowledgment within 7 days, send a follow-up letter:

Sample Follow-Up Letter:

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
[Date]

TransUnion LLC
Consumer Solutions
P.O. Box 2000
Chester, PA 19016

RE: Follow-Up on Credit Dispute – [Your Confirmation Number if available]

Dear TransUnion,

On [Date], I submitted a dispute regarding inaccurate information on my credit report. I have not received acknowledgment of my dispute.

Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, you are required to investigate consumer disputes within 30 days and provide written results. This letter serves as a follow-up to ensure my dispute is being processed.

My dispute concerns: [Brief description of the disputed item]

Please confirm receipt of my dispute and provide an estimated timeline for resolution. If you require additional information, please specify exactly what is needed.

I expect compliance with all FCRA requirements, including a complete and reasonable investigation.

Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Name]

Send via certified mail with return receipt requested.

Step 3: Document Everything (Ongoing)

Create a dispute file that includes:

• Copies of all correspondence (letters, emails, online submissions)

• Certified mail receipts and tracking numbers

• Screenshots of online submissions

• Phone call logs (date, time, representative name, what was discussed)

• Original supporting documentation you submitted

• Copies of your credit reports before and after disputes

• Any letters or responses from TransUnion

• Notes on financial harm caused by the error (denied applications, higher interest rates, etc.)

This documentation becomes critical if you need to escalate or pursue legal action.

Step 4: File a CFPB Complaint (Days 14-30)

If TransUnion hasn't responded within two weeks or provides an inadequate response, file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

How to File:

• Visit consumerfinance.gov/complaint

• Select "Credit reporting, credit repair services, or other personal consumer reports"

• Choose "Problem with a credit reporting company's investigation into an existing problem"

• Provide detailed information about your dispute

• Upload supporting documentation

What Happens Next: The CFPB forwards your complaint to TransUnion, who must respond within 15 days. CFPB complaints create official federal records and often prompt faster resolution because TransUnion faces regulatory scrutiny.

From My Experience: I've seen CFPB complaints resolve issues that months of direct communication with TransUnion couldn't fix. Credit bureaus take federal agency involvement seriously.

Step 5: File a State Attorney General Complaint (Days 14-30)

Simultaneously file a complaint with your state Attorney General's consumer protection division. Many states have additional consumer protection laws that provide remedies beyond federal FCRA requirements.

Why This Matters: State AGs can investigate patterns of violations and bring enforcement actions. Your complaint contributes to oversight and may trigger a state investigation into TransUnion's practices.

Step 6: File an FTC Complaint (Days 14-30)

Report TransUnion to the Federal Trade Commission:

How to File:

• Visit reportfraud.ftc.gov

• Select "Credit reporting, credit repair, or debt collection"

• Provide detailed information about TransUnion's failure to investigate

The FTC doesn't resolve individual disputes but collects data on systemic problems. Multiple complaints can trigger FTC investigations and enforcement actions.

Step 7: Demand Direct Communication from Data Furnisher (Days 20-30)

If TransUnion claims they verified the information with the creditor, contact the creditor directly:

Sample Creditor Letter:

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
[Date]

[Creditor Name]
[Creditor Address]
[City, State ZIP]

RE: Dispute of Inaccurate Information Furnished to TransUnion
Account Number: [Account Number]

Dear [Creditor],

I am writing to dispute inaccurate information you have furnished to TransUnion regarding my account.

The following information is inaccurate: [Specific description]

I previously disputed this information with TransUnion, who claims you verified it as accurate. However, [explain why the information is incorrect and provide evidence].

Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, you are required to investigate disputes from consumers and report accurate information to credit bureaus. You are also prohibited from reporting information you know or should know is inaccurate.

I am requesting that you:
1. Conduct a thorough investigation of this matter
2. Correct any inaccurate information in your records
3. Notify TransUnion (and all other credit bureaus to whom you report) of the corrections
4. Provide me with written confirmation of the investigation results and corrections made

If you fail to investigate and correct this inaccurate information, I will pursue all legal remedies available under the FCRA, including statutory damages.

Please respond within 30 days.

Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Name]

Send via certified mail with return receipt requested.

Step 8: Consider Legal Action (Days 30+)

If TransUnion still hasn't properly investigated your dispute after 30 days, you have grounds for legal action under the FCRA.

When to Consult a Consumer Rights Attorney

You should consult with a consumer rights attorney if:

• TransUnion failed to investigate your dispute within 30 days

• TransUnion conducted an inadequate investigation (verified without reviewing your evidence)

• TransUnion repeatedly reports inaccurate information you've disputed multiple times

• TransUnion marked your account as "deceased"

• TransUnion mixed your file with another consumer's information

• TransUnion's errors caused you to be denied credit, employment, or housing

• TransUnion failed to block fraudulent accounts after you reported identity theft

Important: Many consumer rights attorneys work on contingency—meaning you pay nothing unless you win. Under the FCRA, if you prevail in court, TransUnion must pay your attorney's fees.

FCRA Violations: What You Can Recover

If TransUnion violated the FCRA by ignoring your dispute, you may be entitled to:

Actual Damages

Compensation for financial losses caused by the error:

• Denied credit or loans

• Higher interest rates

• Lost employment opportunities

• Denied housing applications

• Emotional distress

• Time spent resolving the error

Statutory Damages

If TransUnion willfully violated the FCRA, courts can award between $100 and $1,000 per violation, regardless of actual harm.

Punitive Damages

For particularly egregious or willful violations, courts may award punitive damages to punish TransUnion and deter future violations.

Attorney's Fees and Costs

The FCRA requires TransUnion to pay your attorney's fees if you prevail, making it feasible to pursue cases even with modest damages.

Common TransUnion Dispute Mistakes to Avoid

Throughout my 17 years handling credit disputes, I've seen consumers make these critical errors:

Mistake #1: Disputing Online Without Documentation

Online disputes often limit characters and don't allow proper documentation uploads. Result: inadequate information for TransUnion to properly investigate.

Solution: Always send a detailed written dispute via certified mail with complete supporting documentation.

Mistake #2: Vague Dispute Descriptions

"This account is wrong" doesn't give TransUnion enough information.

Solution: Be specific. State exactly what's inaccurate, why it's inaccurate, and what the correct information should be. Include dates, amounts, and account numbers.

Mistake #3: Failing to Dispute with the Creditor

Disputing only with TransUnion means the creditor can keep furnishing the inaccurate information, leading to repeated reporting errors.

Solution: Simultaneously dispute with both TransUnion and the creditor who furnished the information.

Mistake #4: Not Documenting Financial Harm

Without evidence of damages, your legal case weakens significantly.

Solution: Keep copies of all denial letters, loan applications showing higher interest rates, and document how the error affected you financially.

Mistake #5: Missing Statute of Limitations Deadlines

FCRA lawsuits must be filed within specific timeframes.

Solution: Consult an attorney promptly if TransUnion violates your rights. Don't wait.

Mistake #6: Accepting TransUnion's "Verified" Response at Face Value

"Verified as accurate" often means TransUnion asked the creditor and the creditor said yes—without any real investigation.

Solution: Challenge inadequate investigations. Demand to know what investigation TransUnion conducted and what documentation they reviewed.

Alternative Dispute Resolution Options

Before or during litigation, consider these options:

Credit Bureau Arbitration

Some situations may qualify for arbitration through organizations like the American Arbitration Association. This can be faster and less expensive than court litigation.

Ombudsman Services

While TransUnion doesn't have a dedicated ombudsman, escalating through executive customer service departments sometimes yields results when standard disputes don't.

State Consumer Protection Agencies

Many states have agencies that facilitate dispute resolution between consumers and businesses.

How to Strengthen Your Dispute

Make your dispute impossible for TransUnion to ignore:

Provide Irrefutable Documentation

Include:

• Payment records (bank statements, canceled checks, money orders)

• Correspondence from creditors

• Court documents (if applicable)

• Police reports (for fraud/identity theft)

• Death certificates (if disputing deceased person's debt)

• Divorce decrees (if disputing ex-spouse's debt)

• Identity documents proving account isn't yours

Use Precise Language

Reference specific FCRA sections:

• "Under 15 U.S.C. § 1681i(a)(1)(A), you are required to conduct a reasonable investigation..."

• "This dispute is not frivolous as defined under 15 U.S.C. § 1681i(a)(3)..."

Set Clear Deadlines

"I expect a complete response within the 30-day period required under federal law, no later than [specific date]."

State Consequences

"Failure to properly investigate this dispute may result in filing complaints with the CFPB, FTC, my state Attorney General, and consulting with consumer rights attorneys regarding potential FCRA violations."

Special Situations: When TransUnion Systematically Fails

Identity Theft and Fraud

If you're a victim of identity theft and TransUnion won't remove fraudulent accounts:

1. File an identity theft report with the FTC at IdentityTheft.gov

2. File a police report

3. Send TransUnion an identity theft affidavit and police report via certified mail

4. Under FCRA § 605B, TransUnion must block fraudulent information within 4 business days

Mixed Files

If TransUnion mixed your file with another person's:

1. Obtain a copy of your credit report showing the mixed information

2. Provide documents proving the accounts/information don't belong to you

3. Request TransUnion separate the files and remove all information belonging to the other person

4. Follow up every 30 days until resolved—mixed files rarely get fixed on the first attempt

Deceased Marker

If TransUnion incorrectly marks you as deceased:

1. Call TransUnion immediately at 800-916-8800

2. Follow up with written dispute including copies of government-issued ID and recent utility bills

3. This should be corrected within days, not weeks

4. If it recurs (as it often does), document each occurrence—this establishes a pattern of negligent conduct

The Road Ahead: Your Next Steps

If TransUnion is ignoring your credit dispute, here's your action plan:

Immediate (Next 24 hours):

• Gather all documentation related to your dispute

• Verify TransUnion received your dispute

• Calculate your 30-day deadline

Week 1:

• Send follow-up inquiry to TransUnion via certified mail

• Begin organizing your dispute file

• Download current copy of your TransUnion credit report

Week 2:

• File CFPB complaint if no response from TransUnion

• File state Attorney General complaint

• File FTC complaint

• Dispute directly with the creditor who furnished the inaccurate information

Week 3-4:

• Monitor for responses from all agencies and TransUnion

• Document any financial harm occurring due to the inaccurate information

• Consult with a consumer rights attorney if TransUnion hasn't properly responded

Day 30+:

• Evaluate legal options if dispute remains unresolved

• Consider formal legal demand letter through an attorney

• Prepare for potential litigation if necessary

Final Thoughts from 17 Years in Credit Consulting

TransUnion and other credit bureaus count on consumers giving up. They have sophisticated systems designed to deflect, delay, and discourage legitimate disputes. But here's what I know after helping thousands of consumers through this process: persistence and proper documentation win.

When you follow the strategies in this guide, you transform from a frustrated consumer into an informed advocate who understands their legal rights. You create an evidence trail that makes it impossible for TransUnion to ignore you. And if they continue to violate federal law, you build a compelling case for legal action.

Your credit report affects every major financial decision in your life—buying a home, getting a car loan, qualifying for credit cards, even landing certain jobs. You cannot afford to let TransUnion's negligence damage your financial future.

Take action today. Document everything. Know your rights. And don't back down until TransUnion properly investigates your dispute and corrects the inaccurate information on your credit report.

Need help navigating a TransUnion dispute? Contact Credlocity for a consultation. With 17 years of experience and specialized certifications as a Board Certified Credit Consultant, I'll develop a customized strategy to resolve your credit dispute and protect your financial reputation.

Key Takeaways

✓ TransUnion must investigate disputes within 30 days under federal law

✓ You have multiple escalation pathways: CFPB, FTC, state AG, and legal action

✓ Document everything—it's your strongest weapon

✓ The recent $23M settlement proves TransUnion has systematically failed consumers

✓ You may be entitled to actual damages, statutory damages, and attorney's fees

✓ Many consumer rights attorneys work on contingency—you pay nothing unless you win

✓ Don't give up—persistence and proper documentation are your path to resolution

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About the Author: Joeziel Vazquez is CEO of Credlocity and a Board Certified Credit Consultant (BCCC, CCSC, CCRS) with 17 years of experience helping consumers navigate credit disputes and improve their financial standing. He has successfully resolved thousands of credit bureau disputes and helped clients recover damages for FCRA violations.