Are Free Credit Reports Really Free?

Usually not. Most websites and services with "free" in the name do not offer truly free credit reports and scores. Consumerist just roasted the poorly named Freetriplescore.com, noting that the service costs $30 per month. Yes, per month.

Credit scores are almost never free, but there are ways to get a score now and then. Promotional offers sometimes get you a free score, and you can always ask what your scores were when you apply for a loan. In addition, Washington Mutual credit card users get free credit scores along with a nifty chart that shows your score's history over recent months. The score only comes from one of the credit bureaus, but it's better than nothing.

The most important thing you can do to have a good credit score is to have good credit reports. You need to have a consistent history of responsibly using credit in different ways. If you want something for free, get your credit reports - which really are free as a result of US laws requiring free credit reports for all consumers.

Further reading:

• Consumerist on Freetriplescore.com
• How Credit Scores Work