Free Credit Report FAQ

Many have chosen to view their credit files online but have questions about the process of obtaining an online credit report and score for free. Some of the most commonly asked questions and the appropriate answers are provided below. Click on the links below if you would like to immediately reach the section you're interested in.

A: Many consumers don't realize how valuable credit monitoring is until they've tried it. We're giving you our TransUnion Credit Monitoring service free for 30 days. Once you experience the 30-day trial, we're sure that you'll want to continue with this essential service. If not, there's no obligation.

A: We require a valid credit card number should you decide to continue your Credit Monitoring service after the 30-day trial is over.

Q: What is Credit Monitoring?

A: Your credit report is constantly changing-stay informed and guard against identity fraud with Credit Monitoring. You'll receive:

Unlimited access to your credit report with analytical tools.
24-hour email notification of critical changes to your credit report.
Toll-free, easy access to specialists. Cancel anytime if not satisfied.
Up to $25,000 ID theft insurance at no additional cost.

A: Monitoring your credit allows you to look for errors that may appear on your report, as well as unauthorized changes that may indicate fraud. With the growing threat of identity fraud, it's important to make sure that your credit is closely watched.

A: Your credit report will contain your personal information, account history and an account summary, inquiry information, public record information, and creditor information.

A: You can go to the Learning Center at truecredit.com (where you requested your report and score) to learn how to read your report and score, and much more.

A: A credit score is a number used by lenders as an indicator of how likely you are to repay your loans. Your credit score is generated by a mathematical formula utilizing the data from your credit report. Lenders have been using credit scores as part of the lending decision for more than 30 years.

A: Simply telephone our Customer Service Team toll-free at (800) 493-2392 and a service professional will be happy to cancel your free trial subscription. Representatives are available:

Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to Midnight
Friday through Sunday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern time

A: You can cancel with no obligation for up to 30 days. You can cancel at any time, but you will probably want to wait until you receive your first email credit alert. That way, you have a chance to experience the value of the Credit Monitoring service.

A: Do nothing - you will be billed $9.95 (plus sales tax, if applicable) at the end of the 30 day free trial, and then every month from your initial order date. Keep the service as long as you like, or cancel at anytime.

A: The free, 30-day trial is available once for each TrueCredit customer. Your Credit Monitoring subscription will automatically continue after the initial 30-days to ensure there is no lapse in your credit alerts. If you decide to cancel your subscription during your trial, you have the option of re-subscribing at a later date for the low fee of $9.95 per month.

Q: How is a 3-bureau credit report different from a single-bureau credit report?

A: The 3-bureau report includes your complete information from all 3 US credit bureaus - Equifax, Experian, & Trans Union. A single-bureau report contains your information on file at one of those 3 bureaus.

A: When creditors report information to the credit bureaus, they can choose which bureau(s) they want to report to. Some report to only 1, whereas many report to all 3. When a creditor chooses only to report to 1 or 2 of the bureaus, the remaining bureau(s) will not have access to, and therefore will not include, that account information in your report. Similarly, the credit bureaus do not share information and may report information that is inconsistent with the other bureaus.

A: You can go to the Learning Center at truecredit.com (where you requested your ordered your 3 bureau reports and scores) to learn how to read your report, and much more.

Q: Why is it important to check my credit report & credit score at all 3 bureaus?

A: When creditors, landlords, and potential employers check your credit history, they can pull your credit report & credit score from any bureau(s). Some only check 1 bureau; some always check all 3. By checking all 3 yourself, you'll be prepared no matter which bureau(s) they go to.

Q: I wasn't able to receive my 3 Bureau Online Credit Report or the transaction failed. Was I charged?

A: No, we don't charge your card unless your 3 Bureau Online Credit Report is delivered. We will not charge your card if:
(a) we are unable to process your request;
(b) you do not pass our authentication process;
(c) any of the 3 credit bureau systems are down.

Please note that when you complete the order process, your credit card may be authorized for a charge, but that does not mean that it has been charged.