Free Credit Reports

You can receive a free copy of your credit report from each of the three national consumer credit reporting companies (Equifax , Experian & Transunion ) once every 12 months by going to www.annualcreditreport.com and following the simple instructions. You can also request your free credit report by telephone or mail with the information provided at the Web site or from any of the three reporting companies.

Your credit report contains information on where you live, how you pay your bills, and whether you've been sued, arrested, or filed for bankruptcy. The nationwide consumer reporting companies sell the information in your report to creditors, insurers, employers, and other businesses that use it to evaluate your applications for credit, insurance, employment, or renting a home.

Monitoring and periodically reviewing your credit report is an effective tool in fighting identity theft. For additional information go to www.ftc.gov, the Web site of The Federal Trade Commission, the nation's consumer protection agency. They have prepared a brochure explaining your rights and how to order a free annual credit report.