How to request your free credit report

With all the talk of identity theft and the credit crisis lets take a look at how to get a free credit report.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Knowing what is on your credit report is the key to protecting your credit score and your identity. Did you know that you have the right to this information for free?

2. All you need is either internet access or telephone access and you can order your free credit report for free on a yearly basis.

3. If you are using the internet make sure the sight is encrypted so that when you enter your information you are not broadcasting it out over the internet for all to see.

4. When you review your report check for accuracy. If you find accounts that you did not open or that have been paid for in full immediately contact the credit bureau (listed on the report) and ask how to send in a request to update this information. Often these will be termed "dispute" or some such term that sounds rather confusing but it is in fact what you are doing. Disputing an inaccuracy.

5. Keep your credit report in a safe place and if you do need to send in a letter of dispute keep a copy of your letter with your report. Once a dispute is on your report request a new copy of the report.

Tips & Warnings

• Do keep track of your credit history. Keep it in a secure place and if you open new accounts make sure to write down the pertinent information of that account and keep it with your credit report.
• Always check your credit report at least once per year.
• Never be afraid to send a letter of dispute to your credit bureau to put with your report.
• Never give out personal information without knowing who is receiving it and why.
• Safely guard your personal information including your mothers maiden name, Social Security number, phone number and address.

Resources

• Annual Credit Report