Where Can You Obtain a Free Copy of Your Credit History?

Where Can You Obtain a Free Copy of Your Credit History?

Currently, there are three main credit bureaus, Equifax, Experian and Trans Union. You should request your credit report from all three of these agencies. Your information is also available for free from each bureau every 12 months. Another option for obtaining personal reports is to get a three-in-one report. With this report, you get all three of your reports merged into one. If you want a three-in-one report, you have to buy it or subscribe to a monitoring service. 

A good starting point for reviewing your history and information is The Annual Credit Report, a service sponsored by the three leading bureaus and authorized by the Federal Trade Commission. By using the ACR website, you can see all three of your reports instantly as this service is offered to you for free once a year.

Free copy of your credit history online?

You can get your report by logging onto the ACR website. Once there, select “Get Your Free Report” and fill out the subsequent form. You will be prompted for basic information, as well as a few questions regarding your accounts. After you have typed in the security code, you will be prompted to select a bureau to retrieve your report. 

Free copy of your credit history by mail?

Also on the ACR website is the option to request your reports by mail. Simply click on the link titled "Getting Your Reports By Mail" and print out the form. Aside from basic information, you will need a copy of your license and a utility bill in order to fill out the form. While completing the form, make sure to use a black or blue pen. Once finished, send the form to ACR Request Service, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281.

Free copy of your credit history by phone?

Another option is to call the ACR at 1-877-322-8228 and follow the automated voice prompts to order your reports. You can request one report, or all three. When you call, the automated system will ask you for personal information like your social security number, date of birth, full name, and your current and previous address. These actions are taken to prevent identity theft. Once your request is in, your reports will be mailed out to you within 15 days.

Free copy of your credit history through other methods.

According to federal law, you are entitled to an additional free report if you experience the following:

• If you are denied credit, insurance, or employment. (You then must request for your  report within 60 days from being denied. Write to the bureaus and let them know that you were denied a loan and that you would like a free report.) 
• You’re unemployed and plan to search for a job within 60 days
• If you are on welfare, or a victim of identity theft
• If the bank or a card company charges you higher rates or fees, and their decision was based on your report
• If there was a negative change in your credit limit or the collection agency tells you that they have reported adverse information on your report

As you can see, there are many ways to get your report for free.  Just pick your option and take action.