Do you know what your credit score is? This important number is a big factor when you apply for credit, and can help determine whether you get that mortgage loan, credit card or auto loan. The information in your credit report can also impact hiring and apartment rental decisions.

It is important that you monitor your credit report to make sure that it is accurate. This is especially important as identity theft becomes a bigger problem. There are many services that allow you to keep track of your credit score, review your credit report, track inquiries, and more.

If you would simply like to review your credit report each year, the major reporting bureaus (Experian, Trans Union and Equifax) are required to provide you with one free credit report per year. In fact, the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act (FACT Act) required these companies to develop a one stop shop for consumers to obtain their free annual credit report. Visit www.annualcreditreport.com for more information, or go directly to the websites of the three main credit reporting companies:

Experian: www.experian.com
Equifax: www.equifax.com
Trans Union. www.transunion.com

Want to learn more about credit? Visit the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) website for helpful tips. Also check out the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) to learn more about how your credit information can be used.

If you’re in debt and find it difficult to make payments, the FTC site also lists helpful information regarding credit counseling agencies, credit repair services and more. Another helpful resource is the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, which outlines the rules debt collectors must follow when attempting to collect a debt.