How to Get Your Free Credit Report: Step-by-Step

1. Go to AnnualCreditReport.com
   This is the only government-approved site for free reports from Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.
2. Enter Your Information Securely
   Fill in your name, Social Security number, address, and answer ID questions to confirm your identity.
3. Select Which Bureau(s) to Request
   Request all three at once, or space them out across the year.
4. Download and Save Your Reports
   Print or save each report before logging out—your access may expire.
5. Review for Errors or Fraud
   Look for accounts you don’t recognize, incorrect balances, or old info. Dispute mistakes right away.
6. Plan Your Next Check
   Set a reminder to request your next free report in 12 months.

What to Expect When Checking Your Credit Report

• Secure process, no impact to your score: Checking your own report is safe and private.
• Reports are detailed: You’ll see account history, balances, inquiries, and public records.
• It’s common to find small errors: Mistakes happen—dispute anything that isn’t correct.
• Identity theft warning signs: Unknown accounts or inquiries may mean fraud—act fast if you see them.
• Easy online disputes: Each bureau has a simple process to fix errors and update your record.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Use only AnnualCreditReport.com: Avoid sites that charge or ask for a credit card.
• Check all three bureaus: Some lenders only report to one, so review each report for accuracy.
• Don’t ignore old or small mistakes: Even tiny errors can impact your score or signal fraud.
• Print or save your reports: Your access may expire—keep a copy for reference.
• Review before major decisions: Always check your reports before applying for loans or credit.

A Typical Credit Report Check

Checking your credit report is easier than you might think. Here’s how Brenda did it—and why it made a difference:

Brenda’s story: Getting ready to buy her first home, Brenda wanted to make sure her credit was in good shape. She visited AnnualCreditReport.com and requested reports from all three bureaus.

Brenda spotted an old collection account listed in error on one report. She quickly filed an online dispute, and the error was removed. A few months later, her score had improved—and she qualified for a better mortgage rate.

The result? By checking her reports early, Brenda avoided surprises, fixed mistakes, and saved money in the long run.

Frequently Asked Questions

Need More Support?

Unsure how to read your credit report or found an error you’re not sure how to handle? Our nonprofit counselors are here to help—no pressure, just honest guidance.