How To Get Free Credit Reports!
 

The passing of the Federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) mandated that all U.S. citizens need to be given a free credit report each year from each of the 3 credit reporting agencies.  The only requirement is that you must submit either an online or written request to each agency.   The goal of this act (FCRA) was to ensure that each individual stays informed, avoids possible identity theft, and receives fair treatment when it comes to credit worthiness.

In the past, consumers had to pay or qualify based on fraudulent activity within the credit report.  A few states had required that residents periodically be entitled to free credit reports, but now it has become the standard nationwide.

Because there are 3 credit bureaus and each one is required to give you a free report on an annual basis, you can request one from each of agency at different times of the year.  I would suggest using the following schedule so you don't forget which agency to request a report from:

February -  Equifax

June - Esperian

October - Trans Union 

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When you make your first request just use the one that is closest to the month listed above.  If it is in between two of them just pick the one closest to today's date.  After you make your first request, simply add a note to your calendar or cell phone to remind you to request the next report in 4 months.  To request your free report online simply visit:  annualcreditreport.com
 
When you fill out the form the first time, request the credit report from just one agency.  In 4 months you will want to request one from a second agency and in 8 months you can request one from the third.   Since the reports are very similar it works great to spread them out over the year in this fashion.  This way you have regular access to credit reports with having to pay any membership fees.
 
Each bureau will offer you a variety of paid subscription services, however they are NOT necessary in order to receive your report, so simply decline the offers.  The only exception being if you need to know your combined 3 in one credit score, that is not available for free. 

 
For those of you who want to request their credit report via regular mail, you can use the following form:
 
Print a Paper Form 
 
Please be sure to indicate at the bottom of the page which reporting agency from which you wish to receive the report.