Do you know the difference between 550 and 780? Yes, they’re 230 digits apart, but they’re also examples of bad and good credit scores, respectively. If you don’t check yours regularly, now’s the time to start. Small mistakes are a lot more common than you think, and they can do some serious damage to your credit score.
I’ll let you in on some of the most common credit report mistakes and what you can do to fix them. Step 1: Get your free credit report The three credit reporting agencies (TransUnion, Experian and Equifax) are required by law to provide you with one free credit report a year. Sweet.
There are a few ways you can request a copy from each agency. Online is the fastest route. If you submit a request via phone or mail, expect to wait two weeks after the paperwork is received.
◾ Online: www.AnnualCreditReport.com ◾ Phone: 877-FACTACT (877-322-8228) ◾ Mail: Download and complete the Annual Credit Report Request Form.
Send it to: Annual Credit Report Request Service, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281 Pro tip: Grab your report from the fourth credit bureau, Innovis , too.
Step 2: Look for the most common mistakes Typos or wrong info: Anything from your name spelled incorrectly to your address or your birth date off by one number. Tiny mistakes can mix up your credit with someone else’s. Accounts you don’t recognize: If you see something you don’t recognize, don’t ignore it! This includes credit cards you never applied for, loans in your na.
