Each of the three nationwide credit reporting agencies, Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion, will provide you with a free copy of your credit report, at your request, once every 12 months.

The free credit reports will not include a credit score. The credit bureaus provide, for a fee, reports with scores. Click the button below to log onto www.annualcreditreport.com to access your free reports.

Credit Report Review Counseling

BALANCE provides free and confidential credit report review counseling to explain the content of your report, how to handle inaccuracies, and how to protect yourself from identity theft. To schedule a session, call 888-456-2227.

Educational Materials

• Identity Theft Solutions
  Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal information to commit fraud or other crimes. It may also involve computer fraud, mail fraud, wire fraud, and financial institution fraud. Fortunately, there are preventative measures you can take to substantially reduce the chance of identity theft occurring, as well as steps to recover from any damage if you are a victim. (Also available for download as a PDF)
  
  
• Your Credit Report [PDF]
  In the United States there are three major credit bureaus, Experian (formerly TRW), TransUnion, and Equifax. A credit bureau is a company that acquires and maintains files on almost every US adult. These credit bureaus acquire data from creditors such as banks, mortgage lenders, and retail establishments. They search court records for lawsuits, judgments, and bankruptcy filings. Also, bureaus review county records for tax, judgment, mechanic’s, or other liens (legal claims).
  
  
• Credit Report Review [PDF]
  Periodically checking your report is an integral part of sound financial management – and a great step towards achieving your goals. This guide to reading and understanding your report includes an overview of your rights as a consumer, tools for solving credit problems and an explanation of your credit score.
  
  
• Your Credit Score
  What is this score you hear so much about? And how can one number have so much power? Understanding the facts about credit scores will help you make choices that will protect your options in the long run.