First you need to see where you stand in the world of credit.
Problems with your credit report are often difficult and time-consuming to correct, even when they're not your fault. That's why it's wise to review your record every year as well as several months before you begin shopping for a house or a mortgage.
Three different companies maintain your private credit history , often called credit bureaus, which collect and store information supplied by the department stores, credit card companies and others with whom you have accounts. Not all creditors report to all three repositories, so your file could be different with each one.
What To Do
Use the Internet! (The new fashioned way)
Go to https://www.annualcreditreport.com/cra/index.jsp and follow the instructions to retrieve your report online. You will be able to access a copy of your report right away. This is a FREE service provided by the 3 credit bureaus but the report DOES NOT come with FICO Scores unless you pay for them. Each individual bureau will try to sell you your scores when you access their version of your report. Please call me to discuss strategies you may want to use to maximize this free service. (I only ask you to call because each individual strategy will be different depending on your financial situation and your desire to make a purchase or make sure the information on your report is accurate....it's all about saving money!!!)
Use the snail mail system! (The old fashioned way)
To obtain a copy of your credit report, call, write or e-mail each company. All credit reports DO NOT come with FICO Scores. Make sure you know what your getting/buying! Your request must include the following information:
Your full and complete name, including suffixes such as Jr., Sr. and III
Your current address
Your previous addresses, if any, for the past two years
Your Social Security Number
Your date-of-birth
Your phone number
The three major credit-reporting agencies to contact are:
Equifax Credit Information Services
PO Box 740256
Atlanta, GA 30374-0256
800-685-1111
www.equifax.com
Experian National Consumer Assistance Center
PO Box 949
Allen, TX 75013-0949
800-682-7654
www.experian.com
Trans Union National Disclosure Center
PO Box 390
Springfield, PA
19064 800-888-4213
www.transunion.com
Have any special credit needs, questions or need assistance?