Absolutely Free Credit Report Without Using a Credit Card

Here is some great news for people interested in their credit history: You do not have to pay to see it nor give your credit card number. However, you are probably just as interested in seeing your credit score, because lenders often make a deal over this number. Getting your credit score likely requires using a credit card, but not always.

Identification

Receiving a free annual credit report from one of the national credit bureaus does not require the use of a credit card, according to the Federal Trade Commission. You will have to provide identifying information, such as current address and Social Security number. Only requests through the Annual Credit Report website are free. Going through the individual agency websites or subsequent credit history requests cost money.

Warning

The Federal Trade Commission warns consumers to watch out for fake free annual credit report websites. A common tactic among "impostor" websites is to offer a free credit check but only if the customer agrees to try a product, which usually requires a credit card number to authorize a small charge to verify the account.

Credit Score

As of 2011, federal law does not require credit bureaus to let consumers see their FICO score calculation for free. This is the number lenders use when determining interest rates and approving loans. Even when the agencies offer free credit scores, they typically do so only when the customer agrees to try a service. Trial offers almost always require a credit card number, because the agencies hope you forget and let the charges run every month or like the service and keep paying for it.

Tip

You can receive additional free credit reports when somebody rejects an application for a job, loan or service because of something in your credit history. After 2011, some service providers will have to furnish your FICO score and a credit report. Any time you apply for something and the lender pulls your credit history, you can always ask to see the credit score and credit report on his computer, but the lender is not obliged to show you.