FREE Credit Reports Starting 12.1.04
 

http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmp...eathedthisweek



But starting Wednesday, consumers will have a new line of defense against identity thieves. Under a federal law enacted last year, consumers in 13 Western states will be able to order free credit reports from all three major credit bureaus. The rollout will continue across the country through next Sept. 1, when all consumers will be eligible for free annual credit reports.


Consumers still will have to pay for their credit scores, which lenders use to measure the likelihood you'll repay your debts. You can buy your score from any of the three credit reporting agencies. Prices range from $4 to $8.


Monitoring your credit report is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself against identity theft, an insidious crime that often goes undetected until victims start receiving calls from collection agencies about fraudulent accounts. Some victims spend months, or even years, trying to restore their credit.



So true so true. Isht that happened in 2000 is still impacting me in 2004. :(

If you live in MD, you can get a credit report free anyway. You can also request a free credit report if you have been denied credit or are a victim of identity theft.

You beat me to it!

Good stuff. California became eligible this past December. I got my copies today.

Credit report

FYI
It actually is free with no strings attached. You don't have to buy anything. You do have to give up the personal info though. It is a secure site and it is authorized by the 3 major consumer credit reporting companies: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.(Also the BBB).

Clean credit is a *GOOD* thing.

ETA
Keep in mind that you're only allowed 1 set per year.

TTT
 

All 50 states are now eligible.

Bringing this back up because I can not stress the importance of having good credit.:) (yes, I learned my lesson and now I'm eligible to to be financed to buy a home)

Congrats!! I know how you feel!!
<<<< in her home going on 5 years :D

Congrats NinjaPoodle! I've been in my house almost 2 years. Homeownership is great!

Thanks you guys. When the woman told me how much better my credit score (is) was than I thought, I seriously started tearing up (the middle score is what they take). I've been really good about cleaning up the mistakes I made when I was younger. I keep track of what's on my credit and pay cash (Debit). All my hard work has paid off. :)

Amen -- having a good credit score is very important!

That time of year again to prepare:D

*REMINDER*
 

:D

Late but always useful:)

:)

To the top cause we all need to keep on top of our credit!