It is a good idea to check your credit report once a year. You can get a free copy of your report by going to www.annualcreditreport.com or calling 877) 322-8228. If you are interested in refinancing or purchasing a home, I can run your credit for you.

According to a 2004 study by the U.S. Public Interest Research Group, 79% of credit reports contain errors.

To fix mistakes contact each of the 3 national credit reporting agencies and follow their procedure for disputing the mistake:

1. Equifax at (800) 685-1111 or www.equifax.com

2. TransUnion at (800) 916-8800 or www.transunion.com

3. Experian at (888) 397-3742 or www.experian.com

If the error was due to a creditor giving the wrong information, send a letter to the creditor and request that they clear up their mistake. If they don't, you should send each credit reporting agency a letter of 100 words or less explaining the mistake and requesting that the letter of explanation be attached to your credit report. Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, credit bureaus must correct inaccurate reports within a reasonable time, usually 30 days. If they do not, you can contact the Federal Trade Commission at 877) 382-4357 to file a complaint.