How long do negative items stay on my credit report?

Negative items can stay on your credit report for varying lengths of time, depending on the type of item. Generally, most negative items, such as late payments, accounts in collections, and bankruptcies, can remain on your report for up to 7 years. However, there are exceptions. For example, a Chapter 7 bankruptcy can stay on your report for up to 10 years. Additionally, certain public records, such as tax liens and judgments, can remain on your report for up to 7 years, but if successfully challenged, they can be removed earlier. It's important to note that while negative items may impact your credit score, their impact lessens over time. Regularly reviewing your credit report and addressing any inaccuracies is essential to maintaining a healthy credit history.