How to Check a Credit Rating in Ontario, Canada

Canadians can check their credit ratings by ordering a credit report from one of two organizations: Equifax or Transunion. These organizations provide free credit reports when you order by mail or telephone and offer instant credit reports online for a fee. It is important to check your credit report regularly to ensure that your financial information--to which potential landlords, utility companies and creditors have access--is up to date and accurate.

Instructions

By Mail

1

Call Equifax at 800-465-7166 or Transunion at 800-663-9980 to request your credit report or go to the Equifax or Transunion websites (see Resources). Download and print a request for a credit report form.

2

Fill in the form. You must include your name, social insurance number and address. If you have recently moved, write your previous addresses for three years for Equifax and two years for Transunion. Include copies of two pieces of government identification, such as a driver license, health card or passport. If your identification doesn't show your current address, you must also include a copy of a bill or bank statement with this address.

3

Send your request form with documents enclosed to Equifax at:

National Consumer Relations
P.O. Box 190, Station Jean Talon
Montreal, Quebec H1S 2Z2

Or, send your request form with documents enclosed to Transunion at:

Consumer Relations Centre
P.O. Box 338 LCD1
Hamilton, Ontario L8L 7W2

Equifax Online

4

Go the the Equifax website (see Resources). Click on Order Now under the Score Power banner. This brings you to a page offering various Equifax services.

5

Click on Order Now under Equifax Credit Report. This brings you to the "Order and Registration" page. Fill in the registration form and verify your identity. You will be asked a number of questions based on your credit profile. If you answer enough of the questions correctly, the system will allow you to proceed.

6

Pay your fees. You must fill in your credit card information and pay a fee of $15.50 to get your credit report. Once you have submitted your payment, your report will be available for viewing on the Equifax website for 30 days.

Transunion Online

7

Go to the Transunion website (see Resources). Click on Get Your Credit Profile Now. This takes you to the "Place Your Order" page. Fill in your personal information.

8

Pay your fee. Enter your credit card information to pay a fee of $14.95 and get your credit report.

9

Verify your identity. You will be asked a number of questions based on information contained in your credit profile. Once your identity is confirmed, you may view your credit report.