It's critical to check your report regularly

You've probably heard how important it is to make sure the information on your credit report is accurate. It's always been a good idea to know what a potential lender will see before you apply. But now, with identify theft a growing problem, it's critical to check your report regularly.

Now you can easily get your report, and it's free. The Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act of 2003, also known as the FACT Act, gave us access to a free credit report every 12 months. The Act was phased in regionally, and has finally reached Florida!

Read more about the FACT Act.

How do I get my report?

You have three options:

1. Call 1-877-322-8228. You will be prompted to enter in your information, and the reports will be mailed to you.
   
   
2. Visit www.annualcreditreport.com
   
   
3. Fill out a request form and mail it to: Annual Credit Report Request Service, P.O. Box 105281 Atlanta, Ga. 30348-5281.

Find the request form here.

Find an error?

The credit reporting agencies are required to fix errors. The first step is to notify them in writing. Once they investigate, they must correct wrong info, complete missing info, or delete inaccurate info.

The Federal Trade Commission provides guidance on fixing errors here.