“DSNB” is a credit report code that stands for Department Stores National Bank. DNSB issues the Macy's and Bloomingdale's credit cards. Each retailer has a store-only version and an American Express option that can be used basically anywhere. And that, of course, explains the first part of “Amex DSNB.” “Amex” is the credit report code and nickname for American Express.

So there's no reason to worry about seeing “DSNB” or “Amex DSNB” on your credit report if you have a Macy's or Bloomingdale's credit card, or if you applied for one in the past two years. But if that's not the case, you should file a credit-report dispute, at the very least. Signing up for free 24/7 credit monitoring is a good idea, too. And you can read our articles about unauthorized credit inquiries and unrecognized accounts for more helpful tips.

Notations on credit reports can be confusing, but once you know what everything stands for you'll be able to tell if it's legitimate.

Here's everything you need to know about (Amex) DSNB:

DSNB stands for Department Stores National Bank, which issues Macy's and Bloomingdale's credit cards.
There are two versions of each DSNB credit card: an American Express version and a store-only option.
“Amex DSNB” refers to a credit card on the American Express card network that's issued by Department Stores National Bank.
You shouldn't ignore incorrect information on your credit reports. If you see “DSNB” despite not even having applied for a card from Department Stores National Bank, be sure to file a dispute.

It's also good to note that if you don't currently have a DSNB card but you did in the past 10 years, it may still appear on your credit report. It'll just be listed as a closed account rather than an open one.