Educate Yourself with a Free Credit Report from Equifax (cont.)
Contributed by Melanie Vannuys
Your current credit information will be on your report, too. It will include specific account information like when the account was opened, current balances, payment history (monthly payment and payment pattern)and whether you have a co-signer on any of your accounts. Keep in mind that negative payment history/credit can stay on your credit report up to seven years.
Anyone who has requested your credit report in the past will also show up. If you've applied for a loan, credit card or any type of credit, it will show up as an "inquiry." You'll want to remember that too many inquiries in a short amount of time can lower your credit score. It may send up a red flag to a potential creditor that you are having financial difficulties.
Your personal identification information is also on your report. Your birth date, full name, maiden name if applicable, social security number, marital status, address and your previous addresses for up to five years. However, neither Equifax or any of the credit bureaus, can legally collect information on your race, religion, political preference, medical history, personal lifestyle or criminal record.
How Do I Get A Free Credit Report >From Equifax?
If you're ready to view a copy of your credit report, you can contact Equifax in a couple of ways. You can visit their website at www.equifax.com and contact them, can call their toll-free number at 1-800-685-1111 or you can write them via snail mail at: Equifax Credit Information Center, Post Office Box 740241, Atlanta, Georgia 30374.
