Washington consumers can now receive free copies of their credit reports.

As of December 1, 2004, consumers in 13 Western states will be able to get their credit reports for free. A recent amendment to the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requires each of the nationwide consumer reporting companies to provide you with a free copy of your credit report, at your request, once every 12 months.

A credit report contains information on where you live, how you pay your bills, and whether you’ve been sued, arrested, or filed for bankruptcy. Nationwide consumer reporting companies sell the information in your report to creditors, insurers, employers, and other businesses that use it to evaluate your applications for credit, insurance, employment, or renting a home. There are three nationwide consumer reporting companies — Equifax, Experian, and Trans Union.

Make your free credit report request by visiting annualcreditreport.com, calling 877-322-8228, or mailing a standardized form to:

Annual Credit Report Request Service
P.O. Box 105281
Atlanta, GA 30348-5281

For More Information

Please read the press release from the Federal Trade Commission at http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2004/11/freecredrpt.htm

or visit their Web page:
"Facts for Consumers: Your Access to Free Credit Reports" at http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/credit/freereports.htm