Thursday, July 5, 2007

Can I Get a Copy of My Credit Report?

Future lenders and creditors aren't the only ones able to review your credit report. Each consumer has a right to a free copy of her report each year from each of the three credit bureas --- Experian, Equifax and TransUnion. Get your free reports through the Annual Credit Report website.

Why Check Your Report

    Checking your own credit report at least once a year helps stop identity theft early and helps you detect mistakes made by your creditors. Mistakes can include reporting wrong information such as account balances, lateness, collections and liens. This information, although erroneous, can lower your credit rating and prevent loan approvals. For this reason, it's vital to stay on top of your personal report and check the file at least once a year.

Online Request

    Go to the Annual Credit Report website and complete the online credit report request form. Answer a few simple questions to confirm your identity and you'll receive free instant access to one or more of your personal credit reports. Annual Credit Report does not ask for credit card information.

Mail Request

    If you prefer, get a copy of your report by mailing in a request to Annual Credit Report. You can download request forms from the agency's official website. Thoroughly complete the form, and then mail the form to: Annual Credit Report Request Service, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281. The agency will process your request and mail copies of your credit report to your home address.

Telephone Request

    A third method for acquiring a copy of your credit report involves using the agency's toll-free number and requesting a report from a customer service representative. Annual Credit Report's toll-free number is 877-322-8228. Provide the requested information to verify your identity and the agency will mail reports to your address.

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