Are you interested in your credit report and scores? Here, we walk you through the process of obtaining your free annual credit report from AnnualCreditReport.com, the sole official platform where consumers can request a complimentary credit file disclosure once every 12 months from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion, the nationwide consumer credit reporting agencies.
Step 1: Accessing the Official Site
Open your internet browser and visit https://www.annualcreditreport.com. Ensure that your connection to the website is secure by verifying the Verisign Secured icon on the bottom right corner.
Step 2: Verifying Secure Connection
Once you’ve confirmed the secure connection, select your state and click on “Request Report.”
Step 3: Providing Personal Information
Fill out the form with your personal details. Double-check the information before proceeding and click “Continue” when ready.
Step 4: Selecting Credit Reporting Companies
Choose which credit reporting agency you’d like to request a report from. It’s advisable to request reports from all three major credit bureaus. Click “Next” to proceed.
Step 5: Navigating the Request
You’ll see a prompt informing you that you can return to the original website by clicking on the button in the blue circle. Click “Next” to continue.
Step 6: Obtaining Your Experian Report
You’ll be directed to your first report, typically Experian. Verify your personal information, such as the last four digits of your Social Security number, to access your report. Save a copy or print it for your records.
Note: You might encounter offers to view your credit score or FICO® Score during this process. These are separate from the free annual credit report and may require additional fees. Remember, it’s not necessary to request your score to view your credit report.
After reviewing your Experian report, click on “Return to AnnualCreditReport.com” to proceed with requesting reports from Equifax and TransUnion.
Step 7: Accessing Your Equifax Report
Equifax will prompt you to verify your personal information. Follow the process to access your report, and remember to save or print it for reference.
Step 8: Completing the Process with TransUnion
TransUnion will also require personal verification before providing your report. Once done, save or print your TransUnion report.
Once you’ve obtained reports from all three agencies, you’ve completed the process of getting your free annual credit report. It’s recommended to close your internet browser at this point.
Bottom Line
While accessing your annual credit report is a step in the right direction for your financial health, reviewing your credit report every month is recommended to get a more up-to-date picture of your finances and help you catch suspicious or unexpected changes as soon as possible. Credit & Debt 24/7 credit monitoring services give you unlimited access to your credit report with monthly updates and alerts to changes to your credit profile in real time. Start monitoring your credit today through the Credit & Debt app.
