Take Control Monitor Your Credit History

Monitoring the content within your credit reports is essential to taking control of your finances. What's in these reports can determine what interest rate you receive, whether or not you're approved for a credit card or hired for a job, or your ability to rent. Reviewing your credit reports can also help you catch early signs of identity theft.

The three major credit bureaus that monitor your credit-related activity and your credit history are Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. All three use this information to calculate your credit score. Knowing what's behind your score can help you stay in or take control of your financial reputation.

You could request a copy of your credit report by contacting each of the three credit bureaus, but there's a better alternative.  AnnualCreditReport.com is authorized by Federal law to serve as the single source to provide a free copy of your credit report from each credit bureau. Below are the three ways you can obtain your free credit reports.

Online:  Visit www.annualcreditreport.com and complete the online form.
The Annual Credit Report website offers the easiest way to obtain a copy of your credit report. This platform is self-explanatory and does not require a credit card or payment information.

By Phone:  Call (877) 322-8228 and request copies.

By Mail:  Download, complete, and mail the official form to Annual Credit Report Request Service, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281