You can find a free credit report almost everywhere you look. In recent years, it has become very easy for the average American to get a free credit report. There is no reason to pay to stay on top of your credit history when you can get a copy of your free credit report. There is some basic information you should know and look for about your free credit report. Here are a couple of things.

What is a Free Credit Report?

Your free credit report gives you your credit rating. It lists all of your outstanding loans and debts (including credit cards), as well as any information about debt default. You may think your credit is in fine standing because you *eventually* pay off your bills, but each time you're late, your lateness appears on your free credit report. You'll feel the effects of a good or bad credit standing when you apply for an apartment lease, a mortgage, or any other loan. A good credit rating will go a long way toward assuring you a space in your dream apartment or a plot of land that's all your own.

Your Credit Report

If you're interested in seeing your credit report, you can order a copy from any one of three major credit-reporting agencies. There are certain circumstances, including denial of credit within the past 30 days, in which federal law states they must give you a copy of your free credit report. Other sites simply just give you a free credit report. You can also request a report directly from Experian at (888) 397-3742, Equifax at (800) 685-1111, or TransUnion at (800) 888-4213.

Correcting Your Credit Report

If you see anything you don't recognize on your credit report, someone may be using your credit information for fraudulent purposes. Notify the credit bureau at once and call any creditors that filed complaints or incorrect information. The credit bureau can attach a fraud statement to your report and let you know which creditors to notify, and a creditor can notify credit bureaus that the information is incorrect. Keep track of your efforts in writing. According to federal law, the credit bureau and any creditor that filed incorrect information must resolve the issue within 30 days.