Do I have the right to order a free credit report?

Do I have the right to order a free credit report?

The federal Fair Credit Reporting Act promotes the accuracy of credit reports and the privacy of personal information.  Under federal law, consumers have the right to get a free credit report once every 12 months.   This is called a free annual credit report.  Consumers are also entitled to free credit reports when a company takes “adverse action,” such as a denial of credit or employment or approves you for credit but with unfavorable credit terms, such as a high interest rate or requiring a deposit.

There are many other reasons that you may be entitled to a free credit report under federal law.  For example, if you are unemployed and looking for a job in the next 60 days, then you have the right to order a free credit report.   Keep in mind, if you are looking for a job, it is a good idea to review your credit report beforeyour potential employer does. This right gives consumers the opportunity to request their report prior to applying for a job.  You can dispute any credit report errors before turning in a job application.

If you are a recipient of public assistance, then you have the right to a free credit report.  Public assistance includes Medicare and Social Security.

If you an identity theft victim, you have a right to order a free credit report from Equifax, Experian and Trans Union.  In fact, as an identity theft victim, you may order 2 free credit reports every 12 months from the credit bureaus.

Some state laws provide consumers with additional rights to a free credit.   For example, Colorado, Georgia, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey and Vermont allow consumers with the right to order a free credit report.  In Georgia, consumers have the right to order 2 free credit reports per year!  Ask your state representatives if they will add additional rights under state law to obtain your credit report for free.

The Adkins Firm represents identity theft victims and consumers with credit report errors or background report errors.  Are you a victim of identity theft?  Do you have errors on a credit report or background report?  Have you disputed the false information, but the credit reporting agencies verified the information is correct?

If you answered yes to any of these questions you should contact us for a free case review.  You can schedule your free consultation by clicking HERE.  Remember, it’s your credit report!