How long do negative items stay on my FICO report?

Negative items can have a significant impact on your FICO Score, and their duration on your credit report varies depending on the type of negative information. For most consumers, late payments can remain on the credit report for up to seven years from the date of the missed payment. If an account goes into collection, that collection account is also noted on the credit report for seven years from the date the original account became delinquent. Bankruptcies are more severe. A Chapter 7 bankruptcy can stay on the report for up to ten years, whereas a Chapter 13 bankruptcy typically remains for seven years. It is important to remember that while negative items are visible for these periods, their effect on your credit score diminishes over time, especially as you demonstrate positive credit behavior. To improve one's credit score, it is advisable to focus on making timely payments, reducing outstanding debt, and maintaining low credit utilization. For specific details and to view your credit report, it is best to check with credit reporting agencies or look for relevant information on the current FICO website.