Credit Report & Identity Theft Disputes
When Your Credit Isn’t Telling the Truth, The Details Matter.
Serving clients in East Lansing, Lansing, Flint, Jackson, Charlotte—plus surrounding Mid‑Michigan communities.
If you’re seeing accounts you don’t recognize, incorrect balances, or collection activity tied to information that isn’t yours, it can feel overwhelming fast. I’m Tara Nichol, an attorney based in East Lansing. I help clients evaluate credit report and identity-theft-related disputes, organize documentation, and take practical next steps to address inaccurate reporting or collection activity. If you’re not sure what matters most or where to start, let’s talk.
Schedule a consultation: attorneytaranichol.com/schedule
When this comes up
- You found an account, inquiry, or collection on your credit report that isn’t yours
- A debt collector is contacting you about a debt you don’t recognize
- Your credit score dropped suddenly and you don’t know why
- You were denied housing, financing, or a job-related background check because of credit issues
- You’re dealing with the fallout of a stolen wallet, data breach, or compromised account
- You’re trying to clean up inaccurate information but keep getting bounced between companies
What I do (consumer-focused approach)
- Review what’s showing up and identify the key items that need to be addressed
- Organize your documentation and timeline so the dispute is clear and consistent
- Help you understand practical options and next steps based on your goals
- Address related collection activity when it overlaps with credit reporting issues
- Keep the process structured so you’re not stuck in endless back-and-forth
What to bring / what I need from you
- Copies of your credit reports (or screenshots of the inaccurate items)
- Any collection letters, emails, or call logs
- Any fraud alerts, police report, or identity theft report (if you have one)
- Bank/credit card statements showing unauthorized activity (if relevant)
- Notes on when you first noticed the issue and what steps you’ve already taken
- Any denial letters (housing, financing, employment) tied to the credit issue
Your Top Questions (FAQ)
Q: What should I do first if I think I’m dealing with identity theft?
A: Start by saving documentation and writing down a clear timeline of what you’re seeing and when it started. Avoid making rushed decisions under pressure from a collector. A consult can help you sort out what’s inaccurate, what’s urgent, and what a practical next step looks like.
Q: What’s the difference between identity theft and a credit reporting error?
A: Identity theft involves someone using your information without permission. A credit reporting error can happen for other reasons—mixed files, incorrect balances, duplicate reporting, or outdated information. The strategy depends on what the issue actually is and what documentation exists, so it helps to review the specifics early.
Q: If a debt collector is contacting me about a debt that isn’t mine, what should I do?
A: Don’t ignore it, but don’t assume you have to accept what they’re claiming. The right next step depends on what they’re alleging and what proof exists. Getting organized early helps you respond strategically rather than reacting under stress.
Don't wait - contact us immediately if you suspect identity theft or see accounts you don’t recognize.
