When’s the last time you looked at your credit report? You know the report that lists all of your accounts: who you owe, what you owe and if you’ve paid them on time. Yeah, that’s the one.

I pulled my credit report a few days ago, in 4 minutes flat. Yep, I timed it just for you. It’s easy to do, and best of all, it’s FREE!

Why bother? Because your credit matters, it’s used for credit approvals, insurance rates, and even some jobs. Don’t wait until you’ve been turned down for a loan, mortgage, or credit card to find out what’s in your credit report.

You need to know what’s being reported about you. Still not convinced? Click here to watch my video “5 Reasons to Check Your Credit Report.”

So you want to check your credit report? Great! Pulling your credit report is as easy as 1-2-3 and it won’t cost you anything. It only takes a few minutes of your time:

  1. AnnualCreditReport.comGo to AnnualCreditReport.com – This is the official site of the three credit reporting companies— Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Each company is required to give you a free copy of your credit report every 12 months.
  2. Select Your State – Start by selecting the state you live in and click “Request Report. “
  3. Provide Your Personal Information – Next, you must enter your personal information (name, address, social security number) and press “Continue.” Please note the site is secure and uses encryption for highly sensitive information. Read the site’s “Privacy Policy” and “Security and Encryption Policy” for site security information.
  4. Answer Personal Identifying Questions – Next you’ll answer several personal identifying questions to verify your identity.  For example, you may be asked for specific information regarding a previous address like a street name.
  5. Specify Credit Reporting Company – Select the credit reporting company you’d like to provide your credit report.
  6. Retrieve Your Credit Report – Finally you will be taken through the final steps to get your credit report.
  7. Done! – Now you have a free copy of your credit report to print, save and review.

That’s all it takes—to get a free copy of your credit report in 5 minutes or less.

You can also request a free copy of your credit report by phone (call 1-877-322-8228) or mail. For more information on free annual credit reports or to request it by mail, visit ftc.gov.

Your Turn: Pull your credit report. Let me know how long it takes you. 🙂