Credit reports and scores basics

If I dispute a debt, how does that show up on my credit report?

What does the credit reporting company do after I notify it of an error on my credit report?

Are there any kinds of disputes that creditors or other institutions would not have to investigate if I were to file a dispute directly with them?

Will paying off my credit card balance every month improve my score?

I tried to check my credit report online, but the site wanted to charge me a fee or get me to sign up for other services. Aren't credit reports free?

I'm blind or visually challenged. How can I review my credit report?

What is a credit reporting company?

How does a bankruptcy affect my credit score?

How long after getting my first credit account will a credit score be created?

Does my history of paying utility bills, like telephone, cable, electricity, or water, go in my credit report?