What began as a pandemic-era response to financial uncertainty has now become a lasting consumer protection: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—America’s three major credit reporting agencies—have made free weekly credit reports available to all Americans indefinitely.
Originally launched in 2020 to help consumers monitor their credit during COVID-19, the initiative was only expected to last a few months. After several extensions, however, the credit bureaus recognized that financial challenges and the need for transparency didn’t end with the pandemic. The move is now permanent.
More Access, More Control
“In reaffirming our long-term commitment to consumers,” said Mark W. Begor, CEO of Equifax; Brian Cassin, CEO of Experian; and Chris Cartwright, CEO of TransUnion in a joint statement, “we’re empowering consumers with the tools they need to protect their financial well-being.”
Before this change, consumers could only obtain one free credit report per year from each bureau via AnnualCreditReport.com. That limited access often left people unaware of sudden changes or fraudulent activity until damage was already done. Now, with 52 opportunities a year instead of just one, consumers have unprecedented access and control.
Why Checking Your Credit Still Matters
In an age where identity theft and fraud are rampant, regularly reviewing your credit report is more important than ever. Scammers are increasingly sophisticated, using stolen information to open fraudulent accounts or secure loans.
By checking your credit file weekly, you can:
- Catch errors early – Mistakes on credit reports are more common than you might think and can negatively impact credit scores and loan approvals.
- Spot fraud fast – Unauthorized accounts or credit inquiries may signal identity theft.
- Ensure accurate reporting – Especially if you’ve received loan forbearance, payment deferments, or relief, confirm that accounts reflect the correct status.
Reviewing your credit report regularly is a simple, powerful way to stay on top of your financial health. Now that it’s free every week, there’s no excuse not to be informed.
How to Get Your Free Weekly Credit Reports
Consumers can access their reports directly at AnnualCreditReport.com —the only official site authorized under federal law. Unlike third-party services that often require a credit card or upsell monitoring plans, this site delivers free credit reports with no strings attached.
Remember: while these reports do not include your credit score, they provide all the data used to calculate it.
Stay Vigilant, Stay Informed
If you spot errors or suspicious activity, dispute them immediately with the credit bureau that reported the inaccuracy. And if you’re facing financial hardship, don’t wait until missed payments tank your credit—communicate with creditors early to explore your options.
The bottom line? You now have free, unlimited access to your credit reports every week. Use it. Empower yourself. Stay informed. Check your credit.
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