Get and review your free credit reports

Use the authorized channel

Type AnnualCreditReport.com directly or use this page's official link. It is the federally authorized site. Identity verification is required, so use a private device and connection. Avoid look-alike addresses, unsolicited links, and trial subscriptions.

Request all three together or on a schedule. Because creditors may report to one bureau and not another, one file may not show everything. Save reports securely. Never upload them or a Social Security number to the dealership inquiry form.

• The three bureaus maintain separate files.
• Your own checks do not affect scores.
• The report service does not promise a free score.

Read each line purposefully

Confirm identity details, accounts, balances, limits, payment status, collections, and inquiries. Compare the report date with recent statements before deciding a balance is wrong. Unknown identity details plus unknown accounts can signal misuse.

For mistakes, contact both bureau and furnisher. For identity theft, use IdentityTheft.gov and consider freezes at each bureau. An adverse-action notice identifies the bureau used and may support another free report request if made within 60 days.

• Do not post reports publicly.
• Protect downloaded copies.
• Act promptly on unknown accounts.

Frequently asked questions

Sources

• FTC: Free Credit Reports
• AnnualCreditReport.com