How to Obtain a Free Credit Report?

Answer 1

You are entitled to receive a free credit report each year from the three major credit reporting agencies – Experian, TransUnion and Equifax. Upon request, each agency will provide a copy to you in one of three ways: by calling the toll-free number, 877-322-8228; completing a form that is available from the Federal Trade Commission; or, by going to AnnualCreditReport.com, the website that is authorized by each agency that allows consumers to access their credit report online.

You have the option of requesting all three credit reports or just one at a time within a 12 month period from the online site. If you decide to request your credit report directly from the credit reporting agencies, you might be charged a fee unless certain criterion is met. The general requirements to receive a free credit report directly from the reporting agencies include: being denied for a loan or job based on information in your credit report; living in a state that offers free credit reports to residents; and, if you have applied for unemployment insurance or are receiving public assistance.

Information in the Credit Report

Your credit report contains information regarding your payment history with various types of accounts such as credit cards, revolving accounts and student loans. The debt to credit ratio is also listed. Additionally, previous employers and resident addresses are included.

Beware of Scams

There are many web sites which claim to offer free credit reports, but are actually scams that could cost you. AnnualCreditReport.com is the only site that is federally mandated and authorized by the three credit reporting agencies to provide a free report without hidden fees. Some web sites are not scams, but are also authorized by Experian, TransUnion and Equifax to market additional services.

The imposter web sites may use 'free report' in their web address. Others might misspell the name of the authorized site on purpose in an attempt to redirect you to sites that collect consumers' personal information or to sell other products. Still, there are other sites that make claims of offering free credit reports, credit scores or credit monitoring. Many of these products have strings attached. When you accept the offer, it turns into a trial period. If you do not cancel, you may incur charges to your credit card.

Answer 2

All consumers are entitled to receive a free copy of their credit report annually from the three major credit reporting agencies. These are Equifax, Transunion and Experian. Identity theft prevention experts and credit industry advocates urge consumers to take advantage of this opportunity and review the report from each company for accuracy. If errors are found, consumers should report them immediately. The credit reporting agencies are legally obligated to respond.

Consumers can request their report at https://www.annualcreditreport.com. This is the only website authorized to distribute the reports free, although several others may claim to be official credit reporting websites.