How to Get a Free Credit Score

According to law, each of the three major credit reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion) are required to provide you a free copy of your credit report every year. All three companies use AnnualCreditReport.com to streamline the request process. This website is sanctioned by the government.

Instructions

1. Go online to AnnualCreditReport's website (see Resources below). You will be able to request all three credit scores from this website for free.

2. Start the request process by selecting your state of residence and clicking the button labeled "Request Report." You will immediately be asked for several pieces of information, including your Social Security number and address.

3. Complete the identity verification process by answering questions about your credit history. You will be asked to submit confirmation of your identity through the mail if the website is unable to verify your identity. If the website has issues verifying your identity, do not assume that you have problems with your credit report. Since the verification process is automated, it simply may need a person to look over your confirmation.

4. Check over your credit reports and compare each score. You should also confirm the information you receive against your own financial records.

5. Dispute any errors you find with the specific credit reporting agency listing that error on your credit score. Each company maintains an online dispute submission website and allows you to check the progress of a dispute online.

Tips & Warnings

• If you request a copy of your credit score from each of the three credit agencies at different times of the year, you can get an idea of what's happening with your credit report every four months.

• The AnnualCreditReport website will help you place a Fraud Alert on your credit scores if you find that you've been a victim of identity theft or fraud.

• You may not receive a copy of your FICO score with your credit reports, depending on which credit scores you request.

• Beyond your first copy from each company, which is free, you may be charged a fee for any additional copies.

• There may be differences between reports from the different companies. Some of your creditors may only report to one agency, which means that information will only show up on that agency's report.

• If you get your credit reports directly from the credit reporting agencies, you may be placed on lists for offers of pre-approved credit cards.

Resources

• Get your reports at AnnualCreditReport.com