The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) was enacted in 1970 to protect the rights of consumers.

The FCRA regulates the practices of those who provide credit information of individuals to a credit bureau, the credit bureau and of the credit information users.

The credit bureau checks to match the names, addresses and other identifying information of the credit applicants with those available in the files of the bureau. This information is used by lenders to determine an individual’s credit-worthiness or the ability to repay a debt.

The FCRA states that a consumer can make a legal claim against, and sue if a credit bureau, the credit report users and the debt collectors disseminate wrong credit information.

Every year thousands of consumers are refused credit, credit cards, mortgages, all types of loans, employment and housing opportunities, due to wrong information in their credit reports.

Under the FCRA you have the right to view your credit report and the related information if you suspect errors in your credit information. You can dispute wrong credit information for correction.

Equifax, Experian or Transunion, can provide you with your credit information including your outstanding debts, credit card debts, mortgage and other debts.

The Fair Credit Reporting Act offers consumer protection against identity theft so that your credit and good name are not damaged or ruined by the credit reporting agencies or by the creditors.

For a free report, go to annualcreditreport.com