Free Credit Reports
Ever wonder just what exactly is on your credit report? As of March 1, 2005 you are entitled to a free copy of your credit report once every 12 months. These free reports include one from each of the three nationwide credit bureaus, Trans Union, Equifax and Experian.
One central website, telephone number and mailing address is available for ordering your reports. The credit bureaus will only provide free annual credit reports through this central location listed below.
Annual Credit Report Request Service
P.O. Box 105281
Atlanta, GA 30348-5281
(877) 322-8228
www.annualcreditreport.com
Along with familiarizing yourself with your credit report, you can also track your debt, see if you are paying bills on time, watch for identity theft or check for inaccuracies. You can order all three reports at once, or stagger your requests throughout the year. These free credit reports will not include your credit score, but this can be received for a small fee when requesting your report.
Unfortunately, the opportunity to receive your credit report also opens a new opportunity for fraud. The Annual Credit Report Request Service (ACRRS) is the only authorized source for your free annual credit report. Neither the ACRRS nor the bureaus will send e-mails requesting your personal information. If you get an email or pop-up ad that claims to be affiliated with the ACRRS or www.annualcreditreport.com, do not reply or click on any link in the message-it’s probably a scam!
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