Sunday, October 19, 2008

What Are the Three Credit Score Agencies?

Three consumer credit reporting agencies compile and retain information that makes up your credit report and which factors into your credit score. The Fair Credit Reporting Act requires each of the three agencies to maintain accurate information, protect your privacy and provide a free copy of your credit report at least once every 12 months upon request.

Experian

    One of the three credit reporting agencies responsible for calculating your credit score is Experian. You can call, write or visit Experian.com to request a free credit report, place a freeze on your credit file or to report fraud. Experian's toll free number is 888-397-3742. Experian is the only credit reporting agency of the three that uses the same phone number to request a free credit report and to report fraud. You can also visit Experian online or write Experian at its Allen, Texas, address to dispute inaccuracies in your credit file. All three credit reporting agencies have online procedures for disputing incorrect information on your report.

    Experian

    P.O. Box 9554

    Allen, Texas 75013

TransUnion

    Lenders also may solicit your credit score at TransUnion. Visit the company online at transunion.com or call them toll free at 800-888-4213 to request your free credit report by phone. If you wish to place a fraud alert or freeze your credit file, contact TransUnion at 800-680-7289. Fraud alerts advise potential lenders that you may be the victim of identity theft. Freezing your credit file stops anyone but existing lenders from perusing your credit information.

    TransUnion

    P.O. Box 6790

    Fullerton, CA 92834

Equifax

    A national credit reporting agency also responsible for compiling your credit score is Equifax. Contact equifax.com or call 800-685-1111 to requests a free copy of your Equifax credit report. Aside from the free annual credit report, free credit reports are available to consumers who have been denied credit or insurance coverage due to the information contained in their credit file. Contact Equifax at 877-576-5734 or visit the company online to report fraud or to freeze your credit file. If you prefer to mail in your request for a free credit report to any of the three agencies, visit their website first to determine the correct procedure; printable request forms may be required.

    Equifax

    P.O. Box 740256

    Atlanta, Georgia 30374

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