Something that you may want to get into the
practice of doing is checking your credit report at least once a year.
I check my credit score annually with each credit reporting agency.
It
is important that you get a report from all three bureaus (TransUnion,
Experian, and Equifax) so you know what they have listed in your report
and so you can compare them.
I don’t like any unwanted
surprises when it comes to my financial life. If I were to apply for a
new credit card or seek new employment, I don’t want to be
turned down because I have poor credit.
So, I have gotten into the
habit of checking my credit score and report annually. This is a great
time to also check if someone has tried to steal my information or
identity. These are some tips on how I check my credit score once a
year and make sure it is where I want it:
1. How do I check my credit score
with a credit reporting agency?
Contact one of the bureaus through writing
or the internet using the following information: TransUnion, P.O. Box
2000, Chester, PA 19022, www.transunion.com, or 800-888-4213; Equifax,
P.O. Box 740256, Atlanta, GA 30374, www.equifax.com, or 877-784-2528;
Experian, P.O. Box 2104, Allen, TX 75013, www.experian.com, or
888-397-3742.
2. Can I get any free copies of my credit
report?
These three credit reporting agencies have
set up a central website and contact information for your ease. You can
request a report from each agency at the same time for no cost. You can
obtain your free report one time every 12 months from
annualcreditreport.com.
3. Why should I get a copy of my FICO score?
Not only do I check my credit report, I also
check my credit score. This is a great idea to know where you stand.
Your credit score determines if you can qualify for credit and what
type of interest rate you will get.
4. How can I improve my credit and score?
The best way to ensure a good credit score
is to pay your bills on time and paying off your credit card balances
in full if possible. I try to stay as current as possible on my bills.
This is one way of proactively increasing your credit in general.
5. What do I do about discrepancies on my
credit report?
If this happens, the best way to deal with
it is by directly contacting the credit bureau or agency through
writing. It is also a good idea to contact the creditor.
When I check my credit score and report, I
know that I am taking interest in my financial life and future in
general. It is important to stay on top of things so you can have peace
of mind when the time does come to apply for something you need.