How to Check Your Credit File for Free

You get to check your credit file for free once per year if you know where to order the information, according to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). TransUnion, Equifax and Experian are the main credit reporting agencies. They sell report copies, but the Fair Credit Reporting Act makes them each give you a free annual copy if it is ordered through annualcreditreport.com. You can buy additional copies directly through the agencies, but the FTC recommends taking advantage of your free entitlement first.

Instructions

1

Decide whether you want to check all three of your credit files or whether you would rather choose one credit bureau. You can review everything at once or spread your orders out. The Wall Street Journal explains that it is wise to monitor your files regularly by ordering a report from a different agency at four month intervals and restarting the process at the end of the year.

2

Go online and bring up the annualcreditreport.com website. The FTC warns against visiting any other website that promises free copies of your file because there is always a catch. Other sites force you to buy something or give your credit card for a trial membership. Annualcreditreport.com provides your files without a credit card number or purchase agreement.

3

Choose your state from the drop-down box on the initial web page and click the "Request Report" button, then provide the required information. You must give your name, address, Social Security number and date of birth. The site requires your previous address if you have been at your current residence for less than two years.

4

Indicate the credit reporting agencies from which you wish to receive your file. You will see radio buttons for Experian, Equifax and TransUnion, and you can select one, two or all three.

5

Fill out the required forms on each of the selected reporting agency websites. You are redirected to the correct sites, and the annualcreditreport.com banner remains at the top of your credit, according to Summit Credit Union's "Guide to Annualcreditreport.com." Each agency will have its own verification questions to confirm your identity. They generally ask questions about your current credit accounts. You receive your reports once you have successfully completed the forms.