While getting into debt can be a horrifically cos
tly experience, getting out of it has some pitfalls too. All of you newly reformed buyers and credit conscious consumers working feverishly to resolve your personal financial crisis, it’s a good idea to start at the source of the problem — the creditors. The first and most important step is to identify and contact the the companies that extended you credit — they hold the keys to your financial freedom. But be mindful about how you begin the process, it can be an arduous task. Watch for buzz words like “free” and “no cost,” they’re meant to catch your eye in the hopes that you’ll feel the impulse to buy what they’re selling.
There are a number of consumer credit reporting agencies looking to lure you with promises of getting you out of that economic hole. Some may even resort to using misleading promotions and tactics that are just this side of ethical, rolling out has researched some of the more — and less — legitimate credit reporting agencies to help you navigate your way out of the debt dilemma. Just remember to exercise extreme caution in navigating the maze of credit reporting agencies and repair bureaus. Note: Be especially careful if you’re looking for assistance via the Internet. With the simple push of a button you can end up digging yourself in deeper. –roz edward
Every consumer is entitled to one free credit report annually. AnnualCreditReport.com is the official site to help consumers obtain a free credit report once every 12 months from each of the nationwide consumer credit reporting companies: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.
By Mail
Complete the Annual Credit Report request form available online at the only truly free credit report Web site: www.annualcreditreport.com/cra/requestformfinal.pdf.
By Telephone
Call toll free: 877-322-8228
Online
www.annualcreditreport.com
Caution: Misspelling the name of this site or using another site with similar words will take you to a site that will try to sell you something or collect your personal information. These are the only ways to get free credit reports without any strings attached. The “free” credit reports advertised by other sources are not really free!
Beware of Hidden Charges
Even the so-called No. 1 provider of online credit reports and scores (according to comScore MediaMetrix 2.0) — FreeCreditReport.com is less than forthcoming about what you’re getting into. First there’s the name — FreeCreditReport.com, with the emphasis on free — it’s not. Accessing credit reports during the free trial period (one week), can cost as much as $24.95. One week from the time you receive the report, a nonrefundable membership charge of an additional $14.95 applies.
