Choosing a credit-repair company

Credit repair has changed

Credit repair once had a mysterious, almost embarrassing reputation. Today there are many options for people working on their credit, from books and online resources to services that can handle the dispute process for you. You can also do it yourself for free; see understanding credit repair and our free Credit Rebuild Guide.

Choosing the right company

Understand the payment structure. Many people do not consider how monthly fees can add up the longer a service runs. Carefully evaluate every charge involved: setup fees, credit-report fees, monthly fees, and anything that is not clearly disclosed.

Know your risk. Before you hire a company, read its refund and cancellation policy and make sure you understand exactly what you can get back and how.

Ask how progress is measured. Your goal is usually a more accurate report and a stronger score over time, but no company can promise a specific score, deletion, or result. Be cautious of any company that does, that asks you to dispute information you know is accurate, or that suggests creating a new credit identity.

Check your legal protections. Federal law generally prohibits covered credit-repair companies from charging before services are performed, requires a written contract, and gives you three business days to cancel. State law may add more protections.

About The Credit People

The Credit People is an independent company offering paid credit-repair services. According to the company, features of its service include:

• Credit reports and scores at the start. The company says it obtains your reports from all three bureaus when service begins, so you know your starting point.
• Flat-fee pricing. The company describes its pricing as a flat fee rather than open-ended monthly charges. Confirm the current price and billing terms before enrolling.
• Online account access. An online dashboard where you can view updates and communicate with the company.
• Score-focused approach. In addition to disputes, the company says it looks at other factors that affect your score.
• Satisfaction and refund policy. The company describes a refund policy; read the current terms on its website.

The Capitol Fund does not provide credit-repair services and does not control the provider's services, pricing, or terms. Take a few minutes to review the details, current pricing, terms, and consumer disclosures on its website before enrolling.

Read our affiliate and credit disclosures or return to Capitol Credit Rebuild.