How to Get a Free Copy of Your Credit Report Online

These days, with credit card companies and banks in panic mode, it's more important than ever to monitor your credit report and FICO score. Consumers are entitled to a free copy of their credit report every 12 months. You are entitled to one copy of each report from each of the three major credit reporting agencies: Experian, Trans Union and Equifax. Here's how to order yours.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

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

1. Go to a reputable credit report website. The most common site is Annual Credit Report (www.annualcreditreport.com).

2. Select your state of residence and fill in the required personal information. Keep in mind that you will be asked personal questions regarding your credit history. You may be required to specify bank accounts and loan information. If you do not know this information off hand or do not have the information handy, you may not be able to gain access to your credit report.

3. Each credit reporting agency works differently. You may have to complete your personal information 3 different times to get all three reports. Because each agency reports different information, it is important to get a copy of your credit report from all three agencies.

4. You will be required to create a login name and password to access some of the credit reporting agencies. If so, write your login information down and keep it so that you have it available for the next year.

5. You may be asked if you would like to upgrade your credit report information for a small fee. If you are looking for an entirely free credit report, hit "No thanks" and continue on. The information that you get from your free credit report is usually all that you really need.

6. Once you gain access to your credit report, you will be able to print out the report from your home computer or in some cases you can request that a copy be mailed to you.

7. Once you receive copies of your credit reports, be sure to look them over thoroughly. If there is any questionable or incorrect information, be sure to contact the appropriate 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

[leopertehio]

on 11/23/2009 Great article 5 stars for that information

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http://www.CreditReportfrees.Info

[KaraDiablo]

on 9/15/2009 Wonderful advise. 5*