Credit Report
Definition of "Credit Report"
A credit report contains detailed information regarding the relationship history of an individual with several financial institutions.
How do I get a Credit Report?
You ask a credit bureau. There are several around – especially ever since the world became so digital.
How much does a Credit Report cost?
It depends on the credit bureau reporting, but, by law, they cannot charge more than $12 for it. When they do, it usually is in a form of a "bundle", providing you with other services.
Can I get a free credit report?
Yes. Everyone is allowed to ask for a free credit report once every 12 months to one of the 3 nationwide credit bureaus. Call the Annual Credit Report Request Service at 1-877-322-8228 for more information.
You can also request an additional free credit report if:
- You’ve just been a victim of fraud or identity theft
- You are currently receiving public welfare assistance
- You are currently unemployed (willing to apply for employment within the next 60 days)
- Your credit history was the alleged reason for the denial of an insurance policy, or for the loss of an employment opportunity or even for the denial of a credit expansion
What’s in a credit report?
It can vary from agency to agency, but typically it contains personal information like Social Security number, current and past address(es), employment history, financial information like bill payment history, loans, current debt and even criminal history. Lastly, it also shows all the companies that have requested the individual’s file and the date those requests were made.
Why does it exist?
Its main function is to help lenders decide if they will approve a loan for a specific individual. In case they do, it acts as the basis to determine the interest rates they will charge for the loan. It also serves as a way to prospective insurers, employers and rental property owners to get a better feel regarding that individual’s payment history/financial responsibilities.
Real Estate Tips
Look for more terms on our Glossary and improve your language score!
Or access The OFFICIAL Real Estate Agent Directory® and let an agent go through all the hassle on your behalf.
Popular Mortgage Terms
The party advancing money to a borrower at the closing table in exchange for a note evidencing the borrowers debt and obligation to repay. Retail, Wholesale, and Correspondent Lenders: ...
A second mortgage on a property that is not paid off when the first mortgage is refinanced. The second mortgage lender must allow subordination of the second to the new first mortgage. ...
Same as term Bridge Loan: A short-term loan, usually from a bank, that 'bridges' the period between the closing of a home purchase and the closing of a home sale. To qualify for a bridge ...
Cost-of-Funds Index, one of many interest rate indexes used to determine interest rate adjustments on an adjustable rate mortgage. ...
Someone recommended you should reach out to Freddie Mac and you came here looking for him. No, he's not a registered real estate agent at The OFFICIAL Real Estate Agent Directory ...
The interest rate or rates and upfront fees paid to the lender and mortgage broker. Some upfront charges are expressed as a percent of the loan, and some are expressed in dollars. The ...
A documentation rule where the borrower discloses assets and their source but the lender does not verify the amount. ...
The lender's risk that, between the time a lock commitment is given to the borrower and the time the loan is closed, interest rates will rise and the lender will take a loss on selling ...
Loan applications that are withdrawn by borrowers, because they have found a better deal or for other reasons. ...
Have a question or comment?
We're here to help.