How To Check Your Annual Credit Report Online

Introduction

Each year, you can receive a free annual credit report from the top three credit reporting bureaus in the United States. By law, Experian, TransUnion and Equifax are required to provide you with a free copy of your report either online or by mail. You do not need a credit or debit card to receive the report. The only information you need is your current mailing address and Social Security number. During the process, you will be asked to answer questions that you are based on your credit file.

Step 1

Access www.annualcreditreport.com on your computer if you wish to view your annual credit report online. The site is secure and allows you to order all three annual credit reports at one time if you want. You can also opt to only pull one credit report. Some consumers find it best to pull all three annual credit reports to view at the same time because the information on each can vary from one credit bureau to the next. If you opt to only get one report, you can always return at a later date and review your report from a different agency at any time throughout the year.

Step 2

Select your state from the drop-down menu on the home page. After selecting your state, you will be directed to a webpage to enter your personal information. Requested information includes your current and previous address, date of birth and Social Security number. If you do not have the requested information available, you can return to the page at any time and enter it. The information you provide will be used to access your credit file. Entering inaccurate information may result in your request to view your annual credit report being denied.

Step 3

Check the box next to each annual credit report you want to visit. You will be individually directed to each credit bureau's website to view your annual credit report. Again, you do not need to select each report. You can opt to view only one report if you want. After selecting the report you want to view, click “Next” to visit the credit bureau's website.

Step 4

Answer any verification questions that are presented. The questions are based on your credit file. The questions can consist of information gleaned from old or current loans, your employment history or residential history. The questions can also be based on your spouse or other relatives that have been linked with you in the past. If you are unable to answer the questions, you will be required to order your report by phone.

Step 5

Review your annual credit report. The report will be displayed on the screen. You can also opt to print the report out by using the “Print” button located in your browser's screen. After reviewing your report, click “Return to AnnualCreditReport.com” to go back to the free credit reporting site. If you opted to view another report, click “Next” to be directed to that site.

Tips

If you are unable to order your annual credit report online, you can receive a copy by calling 877-322-8228. You will need to provide your Social Security number, address and phone number to receive the report. It will be mailed to you within 15 business days.

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