How Can I Check Credit Scores?

Highlights:

• Online credit reports from Equifax^®, Experian^®, and TransUnion^® do not usually contain credit scores.
• You may be able to get a credit score from your financial institution or lenders and creditors.
• You can also use a credit score service or free credit scoring site.

Many people think if you check your credit reports, you'll also see your credit scores. But that's not always the case. Before we talk about where you can get credit scores, there are a few things to know about credit scores.

How is my credit score calculated?

Credit scores represent your credit risk, or the likelihood you will pay your bills on time. It is a common myth that you have a single credit score. In reality, you have different scores that may vary and change often. This variation is due to three main factors.

1. Different Credit Scoring Models. The companies that create credit scores use their own models to create your credit score. Even within a single company, there are often different scoring models. These different scoring models may be for specific types of lenders. For example, credit scores for auto loans may vary from credit scores for credit cards.
2. Varying Credit Reporting Agency Data. Your credit scores come from data in your credit reports. Your credit reports come from the three nationwide Credit Reporting Agencies (NCRAS). The NCRAS include Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Lenders are not required by law to report your account activity to all three NCRAs. The three NCRAS may then hold different information about your credit history.
3. Calculation Timing. The data in your credit reports changes over time as your lenders report new information. Your credit scores are a "snapshot" of your data at a given moment. Because of that, your exact score calculation depends on the specific day and time.

How do I get my credit scores?

There are a few ways for you to get your credit scores.

• Check your credit card, financial institution or loan statement. Many creditors and lenders have started providing credit scores for their customers. It may be on your statement, or you may be able to access it online by signing into your account.
• Get credit scores from one of the three NCRAs or other providers.
• Use a credit score service or free credit scoring site. Some sites provide a free credit score to users. Others may provide credit scores to customers paying a monthly subscription fee.

How Equifax can help me check my credit score

Besides checking your credit scores, it's a good idea to check your credit reports often. With Equifax Complete™, you can view your Equifax credit report anytime, anywhere. Plus, you'll receive alerts of key changes to your Equifax credit report because we'll be monitoring it. If you find inaccurate information on your credit reports, contact the lender.