How to Get Your Credit Report for Free
Identity theft and credit card fraud are a frightening reality in today's electronic world. Most people become victims during the holiday months so this article shows you what to do to keep yourself safe and also how to keep your ratings great. You should always check your credit card statements for reasons such as errors, identity theft, credit ratings and interest rates.
How often should I check?
You should always check your credit if you plan to make a significant purchase. At least six months before will give you adequate time to correct any errors or help improve your rating.
If you have been refused credit for any reason and want to improve your score. Remember that you are eligible for a free credit ratings check after any refusal and this will give you details as to where you went wrong.
Annually is also a good idea as things may slip by without you knowing before it's too late. Also, if you suspect some has stolen your identity and is happily shopping on your hard earned money, examine your statements and take suitable action.
Did you know that everybody is eligible for free annual credit check? The three companies that provide this service are TransUnion, Experian and Equifax. Remember though, it is best to order one check and wait for a certain period before ordering the next as that way you can have checks throughout the year and spot errors easier. One thing that these companies will not tell you is that they each provide different pieces of information so make sure you cover all three.
There are a few ways in which you can order your free annual report. Via telephone by dialing the following number; 1-877-322-8228, or if you prefer, by sending a postal application to Annual Credit Report Request Service, PO Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281.
Alternatively and sometimes more conveniently is the option to go to the website to order your free credit check. Be aware that there is only one authorized site on the internet that provides this service, so don't be tempted by scams or fraudsters. The official website for this service is annualcreditreport.com.
If you have never ordered a credit report before you can order all three by going to myfico.com. If you don't want to be a victim of fraud and would like to keep your credit rating at a good level, you should always check your credit score, especially after the festive seasons.
How often should I check?
You should always check your credit if you plan to make a significant purchase. At least six months before will give you adequate time to correct any errors or help improve your rating.
If you have been refused credit for any reason and want to improve your score. Remember that you are eligible for a free credit ratings check after any refusal and this will give you details as to where you went wrong.
Annually is also a good idea as things may slip by without you knowing before it's too late. Also, if you suspect some has stolen your identity and is happily shopping on your hard earned money, examine your statements and take suitable action.
Did you know that everybody is eligible for free annual credit check? The three companies that provide this service are TransUnion, Experian and Equifax. Remember though, it is best to order one check and wait for a certain period before ordering the next as that way you can have checks throughout the year and spot errors easier. One thing that these companies will not tell you is that they each provide different pieces of information so make sure you cover all three.
There are a few ways in which you can order your free annual report. Via telephone by dialing the following number; 1-877-322-8228, or if you prefer, by sending a postal application to Annual Credit Report Request Service, PO Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281.
Alternatively and sometimes more conveniently is the option to go to the website to order your free credit check. Be aware that there is only one authorized site on the internet that provides this service, so don't be tempted by scams or fraudsters. The official website for this service is annualcreditreport.com.
If you have never ordered a credit report before you can order all three by going to myfico.com. If you don't want to be a victim of fraud and would like to keep your credit rating at a good level, you should always check your credit score, especially after the festive seasons.