Other Rights to Obtain Free Copies of Your Credit Reports

In the United States, under federal law known as the Fair Credit Reporting Act, you are entitled to receive a free copy of your personal credit report if you are:

• Unemployed and actively seeking employment
• Are receiving public welfare assistance; or
• If your report is inaccurate because you are a victim of fraud

You are also entitled to receive a free copy of your personal credit report if, based upon the information contained in your credit file, a company takes adverse action against you such as: denial of credit, rental housing, insurance, or employment. 

In cases of adverse action, the company taking such action must notify you in writing, providing the name, address, and telephone number of the credit reporting agency, or bureau, supplying the report that served as the basis for the action or decision.  The notice may or may not contain the specific reasons for the negative action.  To receive the free copy of your personal credit report, follow the instructions in the adverse action notice, and remember that you must request the report from the specified credit reporting agency within sixty days of your receipt of the notification.

Additional Special Rights for Residents of Certain States

Under existing state laws, residents of Colorado, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Vermont are able to obtain one free copy of their credit report annually.

Residents of Georgia are entitled to receive up to two free copies per year. 

©Copyright 2008 by Michael Barnett. All rights reserved.  Unauthorized use, copying, or distribution without permission is prohibited.