Get a Free Credit Report and Free Credit Score!

As a consumer, you are entitled to review and challenge information on your credit report. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) allows you to obtain free copies of your reports every 12 months.

Who maintains my credit reports?

The three major credit bureaus do. These companies, TransUnion, Experian, and Equifax, are private run and unaffiliated with the federal government.

Where can I get my reports?

All three bureaus maintain websites, toll free hotlines, and post boxes to process free credit report requests. You can also get your reports via web, phone, or “snail mail” at:

What about other websites or hotlines that offer free credit reports or FICO scores?

Don’t be fooled by poser sites and scam artists.

Will I get my FICO score with this report?

No. You have to order your FICO score separately through the bureaus or through other services.

How quickly can I get my report?

If you go through, you can get your report as soon as you fill out the request form online. Be aware that you may have to reveal personal information, like your social security number. To protect your identity, clear the information fields after you check your reports, particularly if you use a public computer to do so.

Should I check all three bureaus at once or space them out over the year?

Each bureau must, according to the FCRA, provide you with at least one free report annually. But you need not check these reports simultaneously.

Whether to check all at once or to stagger the review is a matter of taste. Some people prefer the simplicity of the once-a-year check-up. Others like to gauge their progress every few months.

What should I do if I notice mistakes on my credit report?

You can challenge inaccurate or wrong statements at any time. Be sure to do so in writing, however; and provide comprehensive documentation of your claim. Keep copies of all correspondence in your files, and be persistent with your follow up. It’s up to you, the consumer, to monitor potential problems and see that they get resolved.


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