Learn about your credit report and how to get a copy

Credit reports list a history of your finances. Learn how to request credit reports, what information they include, and how lenders and other organizations may use them.

How to get a copy of your credit report

By law, you can get a free credit report each year from the three credit reporting agencies (CRAs). These agencies include Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.

AnnualCreditReport.com is the only website authorized by the federal government to issue free, annual credit reports from the three CRAs. You may request your reports:

• Online by visiting AnnualCreditReport.com
• By calling 1-877-322-8228 (TTY: 1-800-821-7232)
• By filling out the Annual Credit Report request form and mailing it to:
  • Annual Credit Report Request Service
    PO Box 105281
    Atlanta, GA 30348-5281

  What information is on your credit report

  Credit reports show your personal financial information, including:

  • Bill payment history
  • Loans
  • Current debt
  • Bankruptcy history
  • Lawsuit records

  In most cases, your credit report will not include your credit score.

  Who uses credit reports and why

  Credit bureaus can sell the information on your credit report to:

  • Lenders
  • Potential employers
  • Insurance companies
  • Rental property owners

  These businesses may use the information on your credit report to decide if you qualify for:

  • Credit
  • Loans
  • Rental property leases
  • Employment
  • Insurance

  Find out how to report identity theft at the three credit bureaus if your information gets stolen.

  What to do if your request for a copy of your credit report is denied

  If a credit reporting agency - Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion - denied your request for a credit report, contact them first to resolve the issue. If you cannot get your complaint resolved, contact the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB).