How to get a copy of your credit reports

You are entitled to one free copy of your credit reports every year from each of the three consumer credit reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). You can choose to request all of your reports at once, or order them separately throughout the year.^[1]  

• Online: Visit AnnualCreditReport.com and follow the step-by-step instructions. 

• Phone: Call (877) 322-8228 to request your report(s). 

• Mail: Send a completed Annual Credit Report Request form to: 

Annual Credit Report Request Service 
P.O. Box 105281 
Atlanta, GA 30348-5281 

How to get additional free credit reports 

You may also be eligible to request additional free credit reports throughout the year if any of the following situations apply.^[1]  

• Online request: Free weekly credit reports are available online at AnnualCreditReport.com from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.  

• Adverse action: If you were denied credit, insurance, or employment based on the information in your credit report, you’re entitled to request a free copy of the report from the credit reporting agency. Typically, you’ll need to make the request within 60 days after receiving notice. Follow the instructions you receive with your denial.  

• Fraud: If you believe your credit file has inaccuracies because of fraudulent activity, you can get a free copy of your credit report from a nationwide credit reporting company. You’re also eligible for two additional free copies for an extended fraud alert. 

• Unemployment: You can get a free credit report if you’re currently unemployed and plan to apply for jobs within 60 days of your request. 

• Public assistance: If you receive government-funded assistance, you may be eligible to get a free copy of your credit report.  

• State law: For example, California Credit Reporting Agencies Act (CCRRA). Check your state’s laws for availability.  

You can also pay for additional reports—but by law, the credit reporting agency can’t charge more than $15.50 per report.^[2]  

Start monitoring your credit regularly 

When you apply for credit, like a personal loan, lenders typically consider the information on your credit reports as well as your credit score. Credit reports show a list of your accounts and your activity on the accounts, like payment history and balances. It also includes details about your applications for new credit, like loans, credit cards, and mortgages. Scoring systems like FICO^® score and VantageScore use the information in your reports when calculating your credit scores.^[3]   

Checking your credit reports and credit scores regularly can help you quickly spot errors and potential fraudulent activity. For instance, you may see an account you don’t recognize or a new application for a credit card that you never applied for. Report anything that doesn’t look right to the credit bureau immediately. If you suspect fraud, you can place a fraud alert on your credit report or set up a security freeze in more serious situations.^[4]  

The bottom line 

Keeping tabs on your credit reports can help you spot errors and potential fraud attempts. If you’re working on improving your credit, staying on top of your credit reports is also a good way to see what may be affecting your scores, like payment history and age of accounts. Remember, checking your own credit doesn’t affect your credit scores, and it’s free to check your report annually.   

1. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. “How do I get a free copy of my credit reports?” 

2. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. "Fair Credit Reporting Act Disclosures"

3. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. “What is the difference between a credit report and a credit score?” 

4. Federal Trade Commission Consumer Advice. “Free credit reports.”