How Do I Get My Credit Report?

A Credit Article Contributed by Timothy M. Doherty

Who Generates My Credit Report?

There are several companies that track and report your credit activity. The three main companies from which you can request your credit report are: Equifax, Trans Union, and Experian. Each of these companies can send you a detailed breakdown of your credit history.

What is in My Credit Report?

Your credit report consists of information provided by every company with which you have or had credit. Each creditor supplies information such as dates and amounts of credit as well as the final disposition of the account. Also listed are inquiries made by creditors and potential creditors. Every time you apply for credit, an inquiry is made that appears on your report. These inquiries are visible to other potential creditors.

Also, companies can make inquiries that are not directly authorized by you. These are not visible to potential creditors. They do show up on the report generated for you so that you are aware of who has checked your credit and when.

It is important to periodically check the content of your credit report for errors. With crimes like identity theft on the rise, the likelihood of criminal activity negatively affecting your credit score increases. You should also be on the look out for mistakes made by creditors. Though rare, mistakes made in reporting can lower your credit score. Your credit report comes with forms to fill out to request research into possible errors found within the report. Simply complete the form and mail it to the address listed at the top of the page.

How long Does Information Remain in My Credit Report?

According to Equifax the following information remains in your record for 10 years: Chapter 7 and 11 bankruptcy, Chapter 13 "dismissed or no disposition rendered". Unpaid tax liens remain on your record indefinitely. All other public records remain for 7 years. In the state of New York, satisfied judgments and paid collections "remain 5 years from the 'date of last activity.'" In the state of California, unpaid tax liens stay on your record for 10 years.

What is the Fastest Way to Get My Credit Report?

If you contact the credit reporting agencies directly, they will charge you a small fee to mail your report. If you need your report quickly this is probably the most expeditious way to go about getting it.

Is There a Free Way to Get My Credit Report?

Yes, but it takes longer than getting it directly from the credit reporting agencies. Any time you apply for credit; whether you apply for a mortgage, credit card, or anything in between; you can request your report free of charge. A few weeks after you submit your application you will receive a letter in the mail that outlines whether or not you were approved for credit and why. Included in the letter is contact information for the agency that supplied information affecting the credit decision. Then all you have to do is call and request your report.