Very often our credit file is checked, whether it's for a background check
, to apply for a store card or something as big as buying your first home or car! So it is handy to keep an eye on just what is going on and you can do this by getting a free credit report, doing this can also put your mind at ease if you're having and problems and help you to fix them.
Most people hand out money to various companies thinking that they will give them special information but some companies don't tell you everything and some will make you pay over the odds for what you're getting. By obtaining a free credit report you can find all information this and more for free, usually a free trial.
You have to be careful and read the small print however, it is usually the case that although the trial may be free you will along with applying for it have to give your card or bank details. This is because the company will be offering a report on a monthly basis for a monthly fee, the free part is usually a free 1st month.
Read over how to cancel it once you have got the information that you need as sometimes you may find that the monthly fee option is for a minimum term of say 12 or 18 months and unless you're happy to be stuck in that contract you may end up losing out. After all you want to be saving money not losing it!
Look over your file carefully and if possible take a record of it as once the trial is over you may not be able to access that information any longer. Note down anything that may be worrying you especially any entries in there that you might not be agreeing with, especially applications for credit that you don't recall.
Most people assume when you get your file you will see just how good or bad it is but it will also tell you if there is any fraudulent activity going on and if anyone has attempted to steal your identity. This can all go on behind your back unless you check your file.
And overall make sure to keep your file in a good state because you may need to get credit some day, maybe for an emergency like a repair you can't afford so you want to be able to get credit when you need it. If you're in anyone's bad books make sure to communicate with them and get advice if you're struggling.