Activity 15: Get & Understand Your Credit Report
(This activity is also available as a blank, downloadable and printable PDF – Download Blank Activity 15 Worksheet)
Request a copy of your credit report by:
- Going online, www.annualcreditreport.com, and ordering a report; or, by calling 877-322-8228 (toll-free)
- You can also check out some of the new companies for information and a free credit score that you can track over time. Credit Karma works with TransUnion and Equifax; and, Credit Sesame works with TransUnion.
Helpful Tips!
- A good strategy for tracking your credit is to request one credit report every four months from a different credit bureau. If you do this, you can check your credit three times per year.
- People who are blind or have low vision may request their free annual credit reports in Braille, large print, or audio format.
What Should You Do If You Find a Mistake on Your Credit Report?
If you find a mistake on your credit report, contact the credit-reporting bureau that is reporting it and give them details and copies of all supporting documents. They will tell you what documents are needed. Follow-up with the credit agency if you do not receive a satisfactory response within thirty days from the date your letter was mailed. It is also a good idea to contact the other credit reporting bureaus, too.
The three major national credit bureaus are:
Credit