How to Get My Credit Score for Free

Getting your credit score is very important to your financial status. If you want to get an auto loan or a line of credit, buy your own home, or obtain a credit card, you need an excellent credit score. The better your score is, the better your rates will be, and you will be able to get loans and credit cards more easily. This is also important in preventing identity theft or stolen credit. Your credit can quickly dwindle if a card falls into the wrong hands, and you could be responsible for paying back the debt that accrued. In the United States, you are entitled to get a credit report (which includes your credit score) once a year for free. The score can range from about 400 to 800. Here's how to get your credit score for free.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet access
• A few minutes
• Envelopes and stamps
• Printer

How to Get Your Credit Score for Free Online

1. Seek a reliable website. AnnualCreditReport.com offers you an free annual credit report from all three credit bureaus, which will include your credit scores.

2. Make sure the site is secure. You will need to send your Social Security number, your mother's maiden name, your driver's-license number, and other pertinent personal information over the web. If you are not comfortable with this, then Section 2 is for you.

3. Send your information and get your credit report. Print the entire thing so you can read through it completely. Repeat within one year or less.

How to Get Your Credit Score for Free Offline

4. There are three credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian and Trans Union. If you are declined credit by any one of these bureaus, you have the right to get your credit report and score for free.

5. You can call, fax or mail your information according to the letter of declination you receive from the credit bureau. They know that they have to give out reports for free. All you have to do is ask.

6. You might be able to get your credit score for free by simply asking. It won't hurt to try. Call each credit bureau and ask for your credit score.

Tips & Warnings

• Get your complete 3-in-1 credit report at least once a year.
• Take any steps possible to keep your credit score high.
• Be careful sending pertinent personal information online

Resources

• Equifax
• Annual Credit Report
• Trans Union
• Experian

Who Can Help Sponsored

• How strong is your score?  Did you know checking your own credit won’t affect your score? Click here to see yours in two easy steps from Experian.