Get Your Free Credit Report

Christopher Ames

In 2021, fraud-related losses totaled over $5.9 billion in the United States. Identity theft has sat at the top of the list of consumer complaints filed with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) for the past two years. Accessing and checking your free annual credit report is key to recognizing signs that your identity may be compromised.

• The Fair Credit Reporting Act guarantees you a free annual credit report from each of the three credit reporting bureaus – Experian, Equifax and TransUnion.
• Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Equifax, Experian and TransUnion are all offering free weekly online credit reports through 2022.
• Visit www.annualcreditreport.com or call 1-877-322-8228. This is the only source for free credit reports guaranteed by law.
• When you access the site, ensure you have a secure internet connection, do not use public Wi-Fi. On the site, click request your credit reports. Then, fill out a form to request one, two or three credit reports.
• You will be required to provide personal information and answer required security questions (this is okay!).
• Once you’ve received the first report, be sure to print it or save it as a PDF so you can access it again.
• To view your other reports, you will have to answer additional security questions.
• Be alert to any discrepancies in your report: an account you don’t recognize, negative items that should be disputed, anything that would suggest your good name or identity are in jeopardy.
• If you do find discrepancies, contact all three credit reporting services to investigate further. Visit www.identitytheft.gov to file a report with the FTC and take steps to freeze your credit or place a fraud alert.

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