Don’t just make the grade. Clear it.
Credit Reporting Resources
Wrangling your new home can depend on your score.
While reviewing your credit report and scores is a good practice, it becomes particularly important if you're considering a mortgage.To ensure you're on top of things, here are some resources to put you in the best position.
Free Credit Reports
This is like getting a sneak peek at the information lenders see. Consumers can review their personal credit reports weekly for free at: www.annualcreditreport.com
Correct Credit Reporting Errors
Did you spot an error on your report? Learn how to file a dispute:
https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/disputing-errors-your-credit-reports
or
https://www.annualcreditreport.com/filingADispute.action
Avoid Unwanted Solicitations (Trigger Leads)
Tired of pre-approved credit card offers cluttering your mailbox and unwanted phone calls? You can opt-out at these sites:
https://www.optoutprescreen.com (for mail)
www.donotcall.gov (for phone)
Housing Counseling Services
Thinking about buying a house and need some guidance? HUD-approved housing counseling services are available for free! https://hud4.my.site.com/housingcounseling/s/?language=en_US
Credit File Security
Fraudsters love easy targets. Freezing your credit report makes it harder for them to open new accounts in your name. Here's how to place a freeze (or remove one if needed) with the major credit bureaus:
Equifax: https://www.equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services/
Experian: https://www.experian.com/freeze/center.html
Transunion: https://www.transunion.com/credit-freeze
Additional information about credit freezes and fraud alerts:
https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/what-know-about-credit-freezes-and-fraud-alerts
Remember to remove a freeze or lock before pulling credit.
Learn more about Credit Scores
Want to understand what goes into your credit score? These resources can help.
Learn about FICO® Scores:
Learn about Vantage Scores:
https://vantagescore.com/consumers/
Take the Credit Score Quiz:
http://www.creditscorequiz.org/