How to Get a Free Copy of an Instant Credit Report

The Fair Credit Reporting Act entitles you to free copies of your credit report. The reports are available instantly through the Annual Credit Report website. The three major credit bureaus -- Experian, Equifax and TransUnion -- operate the website, according to the Federal Trade Commission. Other sites on the Internet also market free credit reports, but only Annual Credit Report is authorized by the U.S. government to offer credit reports that are completely free.

Instructions

1

Navigate to Annual Credit Report. Enter your state on the homepage and click "Request Report."

2

Enter information to establish your identity, such as your Social Security number and address. Continue following the prompts to choose a credit report from Experian, Equifax or TransUnion.

3

Answer a final set of questions about your identity, including questions about your credit. View and print your report when prompted.