I debated whether or not this would actually fall under the category of Prudent Pantry. However just as it is important to keep a well stocked pantry in is also prudent to keep an eye on our finances. In this world where identity theft is an ever-growing problem and can take years to clear up if it happens to you, it is a good idea to keep a close eye on your credit reports. You should request a copy of your credit report periodically and review it for accuracy. Most experts recommend an annual review.
There are three major credit report companies you can request a free report from each of them every year.
The three companies are:
Equifax
P.O. Box 740241
Atlanta, GA 30374
www.equifax.com
Experian
P.O. Box 2104
Allen, TX 75013
www.experian.com
TransUnion
Consumer Disclosure Center
P.O. Box 2000
Chester, PA 19022
www.transunion.com
You do not need to pay for this service so beware of companies that try to charge you. A good way to keep a steady eye on your credit report is to request a report every four months from one of the three companies. That way you have three different reports coming in during the year and can quickly notice if anything is amiss. If you want your credit score you will have to pay a nominal amount. Your credit report is free.
Go to this web site for your free report: www.annualcreditreport.com
On the first page you come to you will have to enter your state and then click the button that says, “request report”. On the next page you will have to fill in information that verifies who you are, including your social security number. On the following page you will have the choice to pick one or more of the following nationwide consumer credit reporting companies to request your free credit report. As I mentioned I do this three times a year, every four months and each time requesting from a different company.
If you find errors in the report, notify the credit bureau in writing, including evidence to support your claim if possible. The credit bureau then has 30 days (a general rule) to correct its report if the information you provide is confirmed.
Good credit reports can open doors for you. A bad credit report can close them. It’s that simple and that important. Most information older than seven years automatically drops off your credit report and is replaced by new information. Seven years is along time to have negative information on your credit report, and it is often difficult to re-establish credit.
Nancy on the Home Front 