Why Your Credit Report Matters
The information in your credit report has a major impact on whether you qualify for a mortgage and what interest rate you'll be offered. If you're getting ready to buy a home, reviewing your credit report is one of the most important steps you can take. It gives you the opportunity to correct any errors and put your best foot forward before applying for a loan.
There are three national credit reporting agencies that most lenders use — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Because these agencies operate independently, the information on each report may differ, which is why it's important to review all three.
How to Get Your Free Annual Credit Report
By federal law, you are entitled to a free credit report from each of the three bureaus every year. The official and only federally mandated source for these free reports is AnnualCreditReport.com. You can request your reports three ways:
- Online: Visit AnnualCreditReport.com — the fastest and easiest option.
- By Phone: Call 877-322-8228 to request your reports over the phone.
- By Mail: Complete the Annual Credit Report Request Form and mail it to: Annual Credit Report Request Service, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281.
For the most up-to-date information about credit reports and your rights, visit usa.gov/credit-reports.
Contact the Three Credit Bureaus Directly
You can also contact each bureau individually for help disputing errors or requesting additional reports. Note that individual bureaus may charge a fee for reports outside of your free annual entitlement.
What to Do After You Get Your Report
Once you have your credit reports, review each one carefully for any errors or outdated information. Common issues include incorrect account balances, accounts that don't belong to you, or old negative items that should have been removed. Disputing errors promptly can make a meaningful difference in your credit score — and your mortgage options.
Whether you're just starting to think about buying a home or you're ready to apply, our team is here to help you understand how your credit report affects your loan options and what steps you can take to strengthen your application.