How to Get a Free Copy of Your Credit Report Online

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These days, it's more important than ever to monitor your credit report and FICO score. Consumers are entitled to a free copy of their credit reports every 12 months. Once a year, you can access one copy of your report from each of the three major credit reporting agencies: Experian, TransUnion and Equifax.

Things You'll Need

• Computer with Internet access
• Information about your credit accounts
• Your social security number

Instructions

1. Open the Web browser on your computer and navigate to the AnnualCreditReport.com website.

2. Select your state of residence from the drop-down menu and click "Request Report." Fill in the required personal information, including your name, date of birth, social security number and current address. Enter the security characters and click "Continue."

3. Select one or more of the three available credit reports by placing a check mark in front of the credit reporting agencies. Click "Next."

4. A form appears that contains most or all of your information filled in. Supply any missing information and click "Continue."

5. You may be presented with a list of security questions. If so, answer them when prompted and click "Continue."

6. Click on the "Submit Order Now" button.

7. View your credit report and print it on your home printer. It is only visible during this one session free. For a fee, you can access the credit report for 30 days or view your credit score.

8. Examine the report thoroughly. If you see any questionable or incorrect information, contact the credit-reporting agency right away.

Tips & Warnings

• You are eligible for another free copy of each credit report in exactly 12 months. If for some reason you need a copy before that time, you can access the credit reporting sites through Annual Credit Report and obtain your updated reports for a fee.

• You are also entitled for a free copy of your credit report any time you apply for credit and are denied. If this happens to you, look for the credit reporting agency on the credit denial letter. You will have 30 days to write to that particular agency and request a free copy of your credit report

References

• AnnualCreditReport.com