Checking Your Credit Report
BOSTON (CBS) - I'll bet every time I have suggested that you get copies of your free credit reports you have made a mental note to check yours. It's on that To Do list that sits in the cloud!
You can easily get your free report by logging onto annualcreditreport.com. This central site allows you to request your credit report, once every 12 months, from each of the large credit reporting companies: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.
A word of caution. There are many look-alike websites out there. Use only annualcreditreport.com. The law now requires commercial websites that say they offer free credit reports to include a box letting you know that you can also get a free credit report at www.AnnualCreditReport.com.
It is important to be checking your credit report and credit scores at least annually. And they will be different from each of the reporting agencies for they have access to different data about you.
Now you can get your credit report for free but you will need to pay for a copy of your credit scores. Usually the credit reporting companies will offer you your credit score when you are getting your free credit report.
Reviewing your credit report is your first line of defense against identity theft. Are there any unauthorized cards or loans on your history? Different address than your home address? These may be an indication that someone else is using your social security number.
Also, many companies want to take a look at your credit report so you want to be sure it's up-to-date and correct. If you find an error it is your responsibility to fix it. First try the online options to see if that resolves it, follow up with snail mail and lots of phone calls. A simple error can be very costly for you.
Case in point, insurance companies, life, auto and home owners, are now looking at your credit report and credit scores. If you have a low score you might have to pay more for insurance.
One more thing: You can also call 877-322-8228 or try snail mail to get your credit report. You will need to get on the Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) website and download a form: Annual Credit Report Request and mail it in to Annual Credit Report Request Service, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281. I know they make you jump through hoops. The easiest way to get your credit report is to do it online. You will need to give them your social security number.
Money Conference Alert!!
On October 11th I will be the key note speaker at The Money Conference which is a FREE one-day event presented by The Office of Massachusetts State Treasury. It will be held at UMASS Boston and the first 500 registrants will get a free copy of my newest book, Money, Your Personal Finance Guide.
There will be afternoon classes on everything from budgeting to buying a house. The Financial Planning Association of Boston will have volunteer financial planners there to help answer questions. You can set up a meeting with a Money Mentor when you register. If you have questions about the conference, contact Sheila O'Loughlin of the State Treasury at (617) 367-6900 ext 615.