A credit report is a summary of how you have handled your credit accounts. Credit reports are used by potential lenders and creditors to help them decide whether to offer you credit — and at what terms. It’s important to check your credit reports regularly to ensure the information is accurate and complete.

How does a credit report work?

Credit bureaus collect and maintain a timely history of your credit activity as reported by the lenders and creditors with whom you have accounts, along with certain other information such as bankruptcies and collection items. Each creditor may report the status of your account according to your payment history.

What is needed for a credit report?

You will need to provide your name, address, Social Security number, and date of birth.

Why credit is so important?

Credit is part of your financial power. It helps you to get the things you need now, like a loan for a car or a credit card, based on your promise to pay later. Working to improve your credit helps ensure you’ll qualify for loans when you need them.

What does your credit report tell you?

A credit report provides detailed information on how you have used credit in the past, including how much debt you have and whether or not you’ve paid your bills on time. You can view your credit report for free at any time, without impacting your credit report or credit score.

Can I get a credit report from my bank?

One easy way to get your credit score may be from your bank. You can get a free credit report from each of the three big credit agencies: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.

Is AnnualCreditReport safe?

Is AnnualCreditReport.com safe? AnnualCreditReport.com is authorized by federal law and safe to use — as long as you ensure you’re on the correct site.

What does a credit report tell you about your credit?

A credit report shows your bill payment history, current debt, and other financial info. Companies and lenders use your credit report to calculate your credit score—a number usually between 300 and 850. The higher your score, the lower your interest rate may be for a loan or credit card.

Who are the credit reporting companies and what do they do?

Credit reporting companies, also known as credit bureaus or consumer reporting agencies, collect and store financial data about you that is submitted to them by creditors, such as lenders, credit card companies, and other financial companies. Creditors are not required to report to every credit reporting company.

What kind of information does an Equifax credit report include?

Credit account information This information is reported to Equifax by your lenders and creditors and includes the types of accounts (for example, a credit card, mortgage, student loan, or vehicle loan), the date those accounts were opened, your credit limit or loan amount, account balances, and your payment history.

What kind of information is on an Experian credit report?

Your Experian credit report is divided into four sections: Personal Information: Your name, addresses, employers. Accounts: Credit cards, mortgage loans, auto loans, collections and all other credit accounts.