(1) creditors who are considering granting or have granted you credit;

(2) employers considering you for employment, promotion, reassignment, or retention;

(3) insurers considering you for an insurance policy or reviewing an existing policy;

(4) government agencies reviewing your financial status or government benefits; and

(5) anyone else with a legitimate business need for the information, such as a potential landlord.

Credit bureaus also furnish reports if required by court orders or federal jury subpoenas. They will also issue your report to a third party if you request this in writing.

Why Should You Obtain a Copy of Your Credit Report?

To avoid any unwelcome surprises, it's important to see a copy of your credit report before you apply for credit such as car loans, mortgages, or credit cards. Errors in credit reports can be common. Keep in mind, however, that they are not part of a conspiracy against you. They are simply the result of human error.

How Do Errors in Reports Happen?

Think about how often your mail has a misspelling of your name or a mistake in your street address. Then, imagine the possibility for error in a report that contains much more information about you. Cases of mistaken identity, out-of-date information, and outright errors can easily occur.

How Do You Correct an Error on Your Credit Report?

Contact the consumer credit reporting agency immediately. The company is then responsible for researching and changing or removing incorrect data. This process may take as long as 45 days. At your request, a corrected report will be sent to those parties that you specify who have received your report within the past six months, or employers who have received it within the last two years.