Article courtesy of GreenPath(TM), a partner of ECU, offering ECU members access to free and confidential financial wellness counselors and resources.
LEARN MORE ABOUT GREENPATH
When was the last time you saw a copy of your credit report? If it’s been more than two years, then it’s probably time to take another look.
It's important that you understand the information in your credit report, regardless of your financial situation. This information directly impacts your ability to obtain a credit card, buy a car or home, rent an apartment, or even get a new job. Two of the best reasons for reviewing your credit report today are to make sure your credit report is accurate and protect yourself from fraud or identity theft.
If you've ever applied for a credit card, a personal loan, or insurance, there's a file about you. This file contains information on where you work and live, how you pay your bills, and whether you've been sued, arrested, or filed for bankruptcy. Companies that gather and sell this information are called Consumer Reporting Agencies, more commonly known as credit bureaus. The information credit bureaus sell about you to creditors, employers, insurers, and other businesses are called consumer reports or credit reports. The three major consumer-reporting agencies in the United States are Equifax, Experian, and Trans Union.
You now have a quick and easy way to get a copy of your credit report through GreenPath Financial Wellness, ECU's financial education and counseling partner. GreenPath will provide you a copy of your credit report for a nominal fee. And once you receive the credit report, a GreenPath counselor is available to review the report with you. They will help you understand how to read the report, show you how to dispute inaccurate information, and discuss credit scoring.
As a member of ECU, you can take advantage of the GreenPath Financial Wellness program, a free financial education and counseling program. GreenPath counselors are available Monday through Thursday 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. (EST), Friday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. To use this new service, simply call 1-877-337-3399 or visit them on the web at www.greenpath.com.
