What does a consumer reporting company do?

Consumer reporting companies collect information and provide reports to other companies about you. These companies use these reports to inform decisions about providing you with credit, employment, residential rental housing, insurance, and in other decision-making situations.

Who collects your credit report?

You know your credit report is important, but the three nationwide consumer reporting companies—Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian—aren’t the only companies that collect information on you. Other companies collect information and prepare consumer reports about you—and you have a right to see those reports.

What is a credit report?

Credit reports list a history of your finances. Learn how to request credit reports, what information they include, and how lenders and other organizations may use them. Have a question? Ask a real person any government-related question for free. They will get you the answer or let you know where to find it.