Find out if you're eligible for free credit report

By Sandra Block
USA Today

Millions of Americans are legally entitled to a free credit report, but figuring out how to get one isn't easy.

Federal law requires credit-reporting agencies to give you a free report if you've been denied credit within the past 60 days. You're also entitled to a free report if you're unemployed, on welfare or believe you've been the victim of fraud.

The three credit reporting agencies have different procedures for ordering your report, and the instructions are sometimes difficult to find. The protections only cover your credit report. If you want your score, you'll have to pay extra.

Here's a rundown of the credit reporting agencies' policies for requesting free reports.

TransUnion. You can request a free report by writing to: TransUnion LLC, Consumer Disclosure Center, P.O. Box 1000, Chester, PA 19022. Include your first, middle and last name, current address, former address if you've moved in the past two years, Social Security number, date of birth, current employer, phone number and signature. Specify the reason you believe you're eligible for a free report. Free online reports also are available for consumers who qualify. Visit www.transunion.com and click on "Personal Solutions" for more information.

Equifax. Call (800) 685-1111 to determine your eligibility and find out how to order a free report.

Experian. Individuals who are unemployed or on welfare can request a report by writing Experian at P.O. Box 9530, Allen, TX 75013. You must certify in writing that you're unemployed or on public assistance. If you've been denied credit or employment within the past 60 days, you can order a free report online. Fraud victims can place a security alert on their file and order a free report through Experian's Web site. You can also order a report by calling (888) 397-3742.

Web sites of major agencies

If you are not eligible for a free credit report and want to pay for one, here is where to go:

Equifax

• Web site: www.equifax.com
• Credit report and score: $12.95.

TransUnion

• Web site: www.transunion.com
• Credit report and score: $12.75. To get the lowest-cost option, click on the "Personal Solutions" link on TransUnion's home page.

Experian

• Web site: www.experian.com
• Credit report and score: $14.95.

All three credit-reporting agencies offer examples of their credit reports and scores, so check them out before deciding which one best suits your needs.

Make sure you don't accidentally sign up for products you don't want or need.

And don't buy a credit report if you're eligible to get one for free.