You Can Get Free Credit Reports Each Year Without Eneding Expensive Services
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You Can Get Free Credit Reports Each Year Without Eneding Expensive Services

Don’t hand over credit-card details for “free” reports when federal law already guarantees them

July 31, 2025

Many sites advertise “free credit reports,” only to enroll you in costly subscriptions. Under federal law, you’re entitled to a genuine no-cost credit report from each of the three major bureaus, Equifax, Experian and TransUnion—without ever entering a credit-card number.

When Can I Get My Free Credit Reports?

Thanks to the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), you may request one free report from each bureau every 12 months at no charge. In addition, through December 2026 the CARES Act extension lets you pull your reports online weekly via AnnualCreditReport.com if you wish.

You’re also eligible for another free report within 60 days if you’ve been denied credit, insurance or employment; if you’re unemployed and job-hunting; on public assistance; or if you suspect identity theft has corrupted your file.

Where to Order Your Reports

Visit AnnualCreditReport.com or call (877) 322-8228. This is the only government-authorized portal. You won’t be asked for payment information or auto-enrolled in paid products.

Watch Out for Impostor Sites

Beware of commercial sites promising “free credit scores” or “instant reports” that require trials or hidden fees. Always type AnnualCreditReport.com directly into your browser, and ignore any unsolicited texts or emails offering “your free report now.”

What You’ll Need

  • Your full name, current address, Social Security number and date of birth
  • Previous addresses if you’ve moved in the last two years
  • Answers to a few security questions about your credit history (e.g., your mortgage payment)

Reviewing and Disputing Errors

If you spot inaccuracies, late payments you’ve never made, accounts you never opened—you can file a dispute online or in writing. The bureau must investigate within 30 days, alert the information provider, and correct any proven errors. If your claim is upheld, you’ll receive a free updated report.

If a dispute isn’t resolved, you can add a brief statement to your file explaining your side and request that it be included in future reports to potential creditors.

Extra Tips to Protect Your Credit

  • Freeze your credit: Placing a security freeze at each bureau prevents new accounts from being opened without your approval. It’s free and reversible.
  • Monitor your score: While scores aren’t free under FCRA, many banks and credit cards provide a no-cost VantageScore or FICO update monthly.
  • Set up fraud alerts: A 90-day alert forces creditors to verify your identity if they receive an application in your name.

By using your annual (or weekly, through Dec 2026) free reports and following these steps, you can spot problems early, correct errors at no cost, and keep your credit standing strong, without signing up for pricey services.