How to Access Credit Scores

It is essential to know your credit score when you plan to buy something on credit. This three-digit number tells creditors the likelihood of your repaying credit if it is extended to you. Not knowing this score can cost you when you negotiate the terms of a loan. Higher scores indicate a good credit risk while low scores indicate more of a credit risk. A low credit score typically means higher payments, terms and interest rates. You can access your credit score by one of these three options.

Instructions

1

Request a copy of your credit report within 60 days of being denied credit. Denial of credit is an indicator your credit score needs to be improved. Legally, if you are denied credit, you can make the request. The notification of this denial should include the name, address and phone number of the reporting creditor. Contact the creditor with the information in the notification.

2

Obtain a free annual credit report from the three reporting agencies--TransUnion, Experian and Equifax. The Fair Credit Reporting Act requires the agencies to give you this report each year, if requested. The agencies will also give you a free report if you have been denied credit, or you can buy the report directly. You can get the reports all at once or stagger them throughout the year.

3

Get a credit report from a third party vendor by using a reputable source. When selecting your source, check with the Better Business Bureau for its authenticity. Often, scammers will purposely misspell the name of their agency to get consumers to seek credit reports from unauthentic sources. Verify the site with the Better Business Bureau before entering your information.