experian free credit report

If you have old accounts that are paid off, some people say to close them and it will help your credit score. This is a myth. Those accounts, if you kept them in good standing, factor into your score and become a part of your credit history. Closing those accounts eliminates that part of your credit history which can actually lower your score.

There are many other factors that go into computing your credit score, but one of the things that you should do at least once or twice a year is get copies of your credit report from each of the three major credit reporting bureaus; Equifax, TransUnion and Experian. Studies show that the vast majority of consumers have errors in their credit reports, and these errors do not auto - correct, but remain there unless you dispute them. If you do not dispute an incorrect item that is negative, your credit score is going to be calculated lower than it should be.

Take the time to handle your credit responsibly and wisely, and keep an eye on your credit report to avoid errors and incorrect data creeping in there. Doing so only takes a bit of effort and can pay off in spades for you and your financial future.