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Credit Reports

What are they saying about you?

Order a Free Credit Report

What you don’t know can hurt you

Be proactive here. Credit reports that contain errors will cost you financially and personally.

Request reports annually

You are entitled to one free copy of your credit report every 12 months from each of the three nationwide credit reporting companies – Equifax, Experian, and Transunion.

Space your requests in order to see updated information. For example, order your report from Transunion in February; your report from Experian in June and your report from Equifax in October. Repeat every year.

Credit reports are free. Credit scores are not.

Order your credit report from www.annualcreditreport.com, the only authorized website for free credit reports, or call them at 1-877-322-8228. You will need to provide your name, address, social security number, and date of birth to verify your identity.

A credit report does not include your credit score. If you want your score included with your report, there is a charge. If you don’t want to pay extra, click ‘cancel’ or ‘no’ when you are prompted to buy.  You’ll be asked several times. Continue to decline.

Dispute incorrect entries

If you believe an item in your credit report is wrong, you can dispute it.  To begin a dispute, notify the agency and the lender in writing. Your communication should clearly state what item you are disputing and why. It’s important to unemotional. Provide copies of supporting information if you have them. Keep a log of all actions taken and all responses received. Use the contact information shown below.

Is fraud involved in a credit report entry?

If you think an entry in your report is fraudulent you should also access the resources of the Federal Trade Commission.

Navigate to www.identitytheft.gov.

This site will guide you through the process of completing the FTC Identity Theft Report which you will need when contacting the credit bureaus.

The FTC’s phone number is 877-382-4357.

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Man holding a movie clapboard that reads "Get More Info"

Fraud Resources
Reporting Fraud Internet Crime Center (ic3) – This bureau is run by the FBI. Consumer reports assist them to investigate complex financial white collar and cyber-crimes. You’ll need to complete this step before contacting the credit reporting agencies. Federal Trade Commission – In addition to its fraud reporting function, this website also contains helpful information to help consumers avoid scams. … Continue reading →
Image showing suspicious areas of a deceptive email message

Phishing Emails
Phishing emails are still going strong because they still continue to work.  Evolving technology, such as Chat GPT, makes them more believable and less error-prone.  Successful email scams play on emotions to get you to send money or information. Joy (you’ve won something!) Fear (your bank account is locked and you must update your information) Desire to help others (Donate … Continue reading →
Wolf in sheep's clothing hiding among a flock of sheep

Con Games Work
Sometimes, we have to be reminded that con artists – especially those using advanced technology – thrive because they win people’s trust.  It’s right in the name.  CON stands for confidence.  Americans generally try to be helpful and friendly – just the sort of people con men (and women) are looking for.  It’s possibly time to increase our wariness level … Continue reading →

Additional credit report resources

How to File a Dispute

Credit Karma offers a useful guide for filing credit report disputes. It includes sample language for dispute letters.

File a dispute

Identity Theft

If you believe someone has stolen or is trying to steal your financial identity, get in touch with the Identity Theft Resource Center. Their phone number is 888-400-5530.

Identity Theft Center

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