Facts about Free Credit Reports

Regularly checking your credit report will help you keep your credit score up and identify signs of potential fraud. Learn more about free credit reports and why they're important on this page.

• You are can receive one free credit report per year from each of the three credit bureaus. Federal law entitles consumers to one complimentary credit report annually from the three main credit reporting agencies. Your credit report can help explain what is a credit score and help you recognize signs of potential identity theft. You can order your report online instantly or request a hard copy by phone.
• Most sites offering free credit reports are selling other services as well. If you obtain your credit report online, you should know that most sites promising free credit reports are not completely free. You may receive a free report initially, but requesting one will also usually sign you up for other services that cost money. For example, a site may offer a free credit report up front, but when you sign up, you are also enrolled in a free trial of credit monitoring services. If you don't cancel in time, your credit card will then be charged on a monthly basis for this service.
• You are also entitled to a free credit report when you file disputes with the credit bureaus. Consumers who find misleading or inaccurate information on their credit reports can file disputes with the credit bureau that reported the information. If the bureau removes or revises the information, they are legally obligated to send the consumer an updated copy of the free report in the mail.
• Credit monitoring and credit reporting are two separate services. You will find that may sites answering the question what is a credit score also sell credit monitoring services. Remember that you can obtain your credit report for free without having to enroll in a credit monitoring program, however. Credit monitoring is a service that informs consumers of fluctuations in their credit scores and alerts them to signs of potential identity theft.
• It is up to you to verify the accuracy of your report. Once you understand what is a credit score, you will also understand the importance of an accurate credit report to your score. When you receive your free credit report, review it for accuracy and dispute any items that are mistaken or questionable.