How to Find Out Your Credit

You can find out about your credit by reviewing your credit reports. Your credit reports will provide your credit scores from the three nationwide credit bureaus -- TransUnion, Equifax and Experian. The reports will show the current status of your accounts, and other information including public records such as liens, judgments, bankruptcies or foreclosures.

Instructions

1

Get your credit reports for free from the website Annual Credit Report. The website was created by TransUnion, Experian and Equifax to provide you with one free copy of your report every 12 months, from each of the bureaus, as required by federal law. Visit the website or call 877-322-8228 to get your free reports. On the website, click on the menu tab "Request Report" and follow the prompt to instantly view and print your reports.

2

Review your reports after receiving them online or by standard mail. Check the reports for correctness and dispute any errors by writing the individual credit card companies at the address listed on the credit reports. Or enter disputes online by finding the "Disputes" menu tab.

3

Visit a nonprofit credit counseling service if you feel your credit is bad and you need help getting back on track. Nonprofit agencies such as Consumer Credit Counseling Service are not credit-repair firms and won't promise to fix your problems overnight. But they can provide financial literacy classes, help with budgeting, and more. Most of the services are free. Check your telephone directory for an agency in your area, or seek referrals from community organizations such as the United Way or Salvation Army.