Posts Tagged ‘repair credit’
Have you ever wondered what your credit report looks like? Finding out what this important document contains is simple just contact one of the credit reporting agencies and request your free copy. Interpreting the credit bureau’s information is simple too.
Usually, most businesses report to one or more of the credit bureaus. Whether you realize it or not, if you have ever had a mortgage, car loan, or credit card, then you have a credit report on file. What this means for you is that to get your credit bureau report, you may need to request a report from all 3 so that you can get a look at your credit bureau “big picture” so you can repair your credit score and history if necessary.
Getting a credit report for free is as simple as contacting the credit bureau. All you have to do is make the request online from one or all of the major credit bureaus. What you have to do is to either make the request online or by mail. The credit bureau will want you to provide personal information to verify your identity. Although some web sites charge a fee for a credit report, you are not required to pay any fee; the credit bureau must give you one free credit report per year.
Once you get the report from the credit bureau, pay particular attention to certain sections. Look for inaccuracies in the first section. Your name, address, and other identifying information will appear in section one. If there are any inaccuracies, you can ask the credit bureau to correct them.
Next up is the section listing your current obligations like home and car loans, student loans, credit cards, and other bills. Check that the credit bureau report accurately lists your bills, the amounts of your payments and the due dates. Late or missed payments of 30 days or more will also show up in this section.
Your credit reports from different agencies will vary slightly, as merchants report to different agencies. It is possible to have an high credit score with two of the 3 major bureaus and a poor rating with the other, for example. The credit bureau will also list any inquiries made into your credit history. Check the report to ensure that no unauthorized person or company has made an inquiry without your permission.
Always contact the credit bureau to correct any inaccuracies in your report so they can take steps to correct them.
By keeping your personal credit reports accurate and up to date, you will have financial and personal peace of mind.