-
Step 1
Look at your personal information. This is typically located at the top of your credit report, and includes your name, Social Security number and even your address. Make sure this information is correct, for your own security.
-
Step 2
Understand what is on your credit history. Your credit report will include all of the various types of credit you have obtained in the last 7 to 10 years; the most recent information will be at the top of the report. It will state the name of the lender, the amount of the loan, the payment history and how much is left before it is paid off.
-
Step 3
Make sure you have no accounts in collection. You will want to get these cleared up before you try to obtain any new lines of credit. Working with these creditors to pay off those debts will help your credit score.
-
Step 4
Peruse any additional information about yourself. Your credit report will also include past details about where you have lived and worked. Make sure that the names and addresses of former employers are correct so your identity is safe, and you are not confused with someone else.
-
Step 5
Look at the bottom of your credit report to see who has pulled a copy of it. Multiple inquiries on your credit report within a small amount of time can actually hurt your score. Make sure that everyone who is listed as having pulled your credit report was authorized to see it.
