What data is being reported about me?

Find out for free (and how we can help you take action if it’s wrong).

Consumer reporting agencies exist to collect and sell data about consumers.  That includes you.  Most consumers are familiar with the big three credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian, and Trans Union — that report credit information.  But did you know that there are dozens upon dozens of specialty bureaus reporting information ranging from criminal background data, medical records, and housing history relating to tenants and landlords?

Why Should a Consumer Care about His or Her Consumer File?   In One Word: Errors.

These reporting agencies are notorious for reporting inaccurate information.  And your file often is referenced when you apply for credit, employment, housing, or insurance.  Errors in your file can lead to denials or unfavorable terms.

Obtaining Your Free File Disclosures

Part I — Obtaining Your Credit Reports for Free

For a form you can mail in to request your credit reports from annualcreditreport.com, please print the form on this webpage.

Part II — Obtaining Your Specialty Reporting Agency Files (in most cases, for free)

Here is your three-step action plan:

  1. Visit each company’s website and follow its instructions to obtain your free file disclosure.
  2. Review it carefully upon receipt.
  3. Contact us immediately if the disclosure contains inaccurate negative information about you.

Option 1: A list of available specialty consumer reporting agencies is available here:

http://files.consumerfinance.gov/f/201604_cfpb_list-of-consumer-reporting-companies.pdf

Option 2: The following list of direct links makes it easier for you to take advantage of your legal rights to (1) obtain the information in your consumer reports and (2) dispute report inaccuracies with companies as needed.

Experian, Equifax, Trans Union

Employment Screening

Medical

Low-income and subprime

Utilities

National Consumer Telecom & Utilities Exchange

Retail

The Retail Equation

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