Three Main Credit Reporting Agencies

Credit scores can mean the difference between qualifying or not qualifying a mortgage, auto loan, or other type of borrowing. They also make a difference in the amount of interest borrowers must pay on loans. The three main credit reporting agencies -- Equifax, Experian and TransUnion -- provide basic credit scores and reports for a nominal fee, while offering other credit-related products and services.

Equifax

In business for more than a century, this Atlanta-based company "leverages one of the largest sources of consumer and commercial data," with trustworthy information for its clients. It offers various information for consumers, including its own credit scores along with Experian and TransUnion. Featured products include Equifax ID Patrol with automatic fraud alerts, and Debt Wise to help customers pay off debts faster. Identity Reports sends information to those wanting your credit history, such as landlords and homeowners selling their dwellings on their own.

Experian

According to Experian, the average U.S. citizen's credit score is 693. It offers credit scores and reports and information about factors affecting the score, with daily online and telephone support available. Other products include the three bureau reports and identity theft protection with daily monitoring, including online ID scans and email alerts on any important credit score changes. Small businesses may sign up for credit information on suppliers and clients. Their consumer credit services help businesses identify good customers and locate debtors.

TransUnion

TransUnion, originating as a holding company for rail cars, is now an international credit reporting agency with offices in 25 countries. Their three-bureau credit monitoring program offers $25,000 in identity theft insurance, along with personal analysis of debt and trends in credit. Consumers signing up for TransUnion programs may submit credit disputes online or via mail or telephone. For businesses, TransUnion offers patient financial summaries for health care organizations and tenant screening for landlords. It also offers criminal data information in national, state and local jurisdictions.