Americans are able to check their credit report three times in a one year period, FOR FREE!! The three credit reporting agencies are Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian and each provide you with a free credit report once in a twelve month period.

 
To obtain the report you need to provide your name, address, Social Security number, and date of birth. If you have moved in the last two years, you may have to provide your previous address. To maintain the security of your file, each nationwide consumer reporting company may ask you for some information that only you would know, like the amount of your monthly mortgage payment. Each company may ask you for different information because the information each has in your file may come from different sources.

 
It is important to maintain a watch on your credit report to ensure you identity has not been stolen and there are no inaccuracies on the report, especially when you are applying for new credit.

To obtain your credit report go to: www.annualcreditreport.com