How to Get Your Free Credit Report
December 3, 2007
Unfortunately the holiday season usually brings an increase in credit card fraud and identity theft, so right after the holidays is a great time to check your credit report. Following is why, when and how to check your credit report…
Why you should check your credit report
- to check for errors
- to check for fraud and identity theft
- to get the best interest rates
- more and more people are relying on credit scores – car insurance, employers, etc.
When to check your credit report:
- Once a year if you have good credit and don’t anticipate any large purchases in the near future
- Before a major purchase, such as a new home, new car, etc. – should request your credit report 6 months ahead of a big purchase so you have time to correct any errors
- If you’ve been denied a credit card, loan or other product or service because of your credit (you are entitled to a free credit report if you have been denied credit based on information found in
your report) - If you suspect that your identity has been stolen
- If you are starting a plan to get out of debt or repair your credit.