Start with identity information
Reports typically show identifying details such as your name, prior addresses, and other information used to match records. A spelling variant does not always mean fraud, but unfamiliar information is worth investigating.
Review account history
Look at open and closed accounts, balances, payment status, credit limits where applicable, and reported dates. Check that account details match your records. A credit report is a record of reported information, not a complete statement of your finances.
Examine inquiries and other items
Review hard inquiries to recognize recent applications. Depending on the bureau and report, collections and public-record-related information may also appear. A report can contain mistakes or outdated entries; do not assume every item is accurate.
What to do when something looks wrong
Gather supporting documents and use the bureau's official dispute process. You can also contact the company that furnished the information. Keep copies and track the status of your dispute. Be skeptical of anyone promising to remove accurate negative information for a fee.
Make review a habit
Use the authorized free report source at AnnualCreditReport.com and review each bureau separately. A credit score, if shown elsewhere, is calculated using scoring rules and data from a particular bureau.