The only one who can fix your credit is you, and this process can only happen over time as you take steps to improve your credit on your own.
First, contact your creditors when you realize you are unable to make your payments. If you need help preparing a budget and working out a payment plan, contact your local credit counseling service. To locate a credit counseling service near you, go to the National Foundation for Credit Counseling web site or call 800-388-2227.
Next, check your credit report. About one out of every four credit reports contains errors. You may dispute, at no charge, any items you believe are inaccurate. Each credit bureau usually has its own method for filing a dispute, so contact them for more information.
You should collect copies of any supporting documentation and send these with the form you submit. The credit bureau will investigate your dispute and delete or correct any information found to be inaccurate. You may request that a copy of your corrected credit report be sent to everyone who has requested your credit within the past six months.
If the dispute remains, you can file a written explanation that will be...