Equifax vs TransUnion disputes in Canada: what's different and which to file first
How Equifax and TransUnion Canada disputes differ, why your two reports don't match, and how to dispute an error on both.
Why your two reports don't match
Lenders choose which bureau they report to. Some report to both, some to only one, and they may report on different days. A different score or a missing account on one report is common and is not, by itself, an error.
What matters is whether each item shown is accurate: the right account, balance, status and dates.
How the dispute processes compare
Both bureaus accept disputes online, by mail and by other channels listed on their websites. Each contacts the company that supplied the information and asks it to confirm or correct it.
Neither bureau will fix an item on the other bureau's file. If the same error appears on both, dispute it with both.
Which to file first
File with whichever report shows the error. If both do, send both disputes the same week with the same proof, and keep dated copies of everything you send.
When the bureau won't change it
If the lender confirms the item, dispute directly with the lender in writing and ask for its records. You can also add a short consumer statement to your file.
Want a lawyer to look at your situation?
General information only, not legal advice. Laws and bureau policies change.