TIDBITS - Free Credit Report

As a result of the Fair Trade and Accurate Credit Transactions Act (FACT), residents of Illinois are now eligible to get a free credit report annually from each of the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian.
Due to rapidly rising incidence of identity theft, you should check your report annually. Knowing your credit score and how to improve it may be valuable if you plan to apply for credit in the near future.
In today’s world, your credit report can have an impact on your employment prospects, rates on loans, insurability, and the rates on your current debt. Many credit companies have a clause wherein your rate can rise to the maximum if your credit score changes dramatically. This can seriously impact your budget and your life.
You can get your free report by going to www.annualcreditreport.com, or by calling 877-322-8228. Make sure you get a report from each of the three major credit bureaus. Your report is free, but there is usually a minimal charge for your credit score. The typical charge is between $5 and $10 for the score.