• If you want to contest a credit report, bill or credit denial, contact the appropriate company in writing and send it "return receipt requested."
• When you contest a billing error, include your name, account number, the dollar amount in question, and the reason you believe the bill is wrong.
• If in doubt request written verification of a debt.
• Keep all your original documents, especially receipts, sales slips, and billing statements. You will need them if you dispute a credit bill or report. Send copies only.  It may take more than one letter to correct problems.
• Be skeptical of businesses that offer instant solutions to credit problems.
• Be persistent.  Resolving credit problems can take time and effort.

There is nothing that a credit repair company can do for you - for a fee - that you cannot do for yourself for little or no cost.