Every year you are entitled to view and print a copy of your Free Credit Report. The government authorized website where you can get your free annual report is AnnualCreditReport.com. However, we recommend monitoring your credit monthly with a service like Credit Sesame, especially if you are trying to rebuild your credit. Services like Credit Sesame allow you to monitor your credit on a daily basis, and notify you of any changes to your credit score or report. Are you following our Debt Free Journey?
Please note that websites like this require a monthly subscription fee, where AnnualCreditReport.com does not. I have had a subscription for several years, and it has alerted me of credit changes every time. I have found this service to be invaluable and definitely worth the monthly subscription. Make sure to read our post on 5 Ways to Improve Your Credit Score Quickly. If you are looking to improve your credit, start our 31 Day Spending Freeze.
The FTC Website states, “The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requires each of the nationwide credit reporting companies — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion — to provide you with a free copy of your credit report, at your request, once every 12 months. The FCRA promotes the accuracy and privacy of information in the files of the nation’s credit reporting companies. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the nation’s consumer protection agency, enforces the FCRA with respect to credit reporting companies.”
-Source: FTC Website
How to Get Your Free Credit Report
- Go to AnnualCreditReport.com or Credit Sesame.
- Sign-up and fill out your information.
- Do NOT close the window before you print your report if you choose AnnualCreditReport.com.
- We have a list of all three credit reporting agencies here.
Why do I want a copy of my credit report?
Getting a copy of your credit report allows you to protect against identity theft. This is another reason why I chose Credit Sesame, because I wanted to monitor my credit score on an ongoing basis. You should also make sure you check your credit before applying for a new loan. It is also part of a healthy Financial Freedom Plan.
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