If you think the only time you can get free credit reports is when you go to annualcreditreport.com and request them, you’re wrong. There are other times when it’s within your right to get a free report. Below are four situations that allow you to keep tabs on your credit, free of charge.
- Identity theft. If you have reason to believe someone has fraudulently used your information, you can obtain one free report from each of the credit bureaus (in addition to the standard free reports offered via annualcreditreport.com) so that you can review it for any unusual activity.
- You’re looking for a job. If you are unemployed and searching for a new job, a free credit report is yours for the asking.
- You put a fraud alert on your credit report. When you file a fraud alert, you are entitled to one free credit report from each of the credit reporting agencies.
- Adverse action. If you’ve been denied a loan, employment, insurance, or some other benefit because of your credit, you’re entitled to see a copy of your report.