How To Get Your Free Credit Report

Gather Your Information: You can check your credit report from each of the three credit reporting companies (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion) in several ways, but each of them will require your basic information. Make sure, if you haven't already committed them to memory, you have your Social Security number (for the application) and any financial account information (to cross check with the reports). If you have moved in the last two years, have your previous address.

Decide Application Method: Credit reports are available online through AnnualCreditReport.com. Any information you enter is completely secure. You receive your report immediately when applying online.

You may also order your report by calling (877) 322-8228 or by mailing a request to:

Annual Credit Report Request Service
PO Box 105281
Atlanta, GA 30348-5281

These requests typically take 2-3 weeks.

Review Your Report Thoroughly: Even minor mistakes can prove costly. Check to make sure old accounts are no longer active, current accounts are correct and all of your information has been correctly reported.

Address Any Mistakes: Problems must be handled with the reporting agency. Here is the contact information for each:

Equifax
PO Box 740256
Atlanta, GA 30374
(800) 797-7033

Experian
NCAC
PO Box 9595
Allen, TX 75013
(800) 583-4080

TransUnion
PO Box 200
Chester, PA 19022-2000
(800) 916-8800