August 31, 2005

Governor M. Jodi Rell and Banking Commissioner John P. Burke announced that as of September 1st Connecticut consumers may obtain a free copy of their credit report once a year.

The Federal Trade Commission amended the Fair Credit Reporting Act by requiring that the three nationwide consumer reporting agencies - Equifax, Experian, and Trans Union - provide to consumers, upon their request, a free copy of their credit report once every 12 months. In Connecticut, this legislation takes effect on September 1, 2005.

The three companies have set up a central Web site, toll-free number, and mailing address through which consumers can order their free credit report:

• Visit www.annualcreditreport.com
• Call toll-free: 1-877-322-8228
• Mail completed Annual Credit Report Request Form to: Annual Credit Report Request Service, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281

"I urge state residents to get their financial check ups," Governor Rell said. "This is a great idea that's just plain common sense. Consumers should know what financial information is being reported about them, especially in this day and age when reports of identity theft are becoming more and more prevalent. These credit reports can provide some much needed peace of mind."

Commissioner Burke added, "I recommend that consumers take advantage of this opportunity to check their credit history and make sure their information is correct. It is essential to find out if the information on your credit report is accurate. Mistakes can happen, and the earlier you spot them the sooner you can begin to correct them."

In addition, consumers should be leery of e-mails or pop-up ads that claim to be from annualcreditreport.com or any of the three consumer reporting agencies - they are likely a scam. Therefore, do not reply or click on any link in the message, and remember that annualcreditreport.com would NEVER send e-mail solicitations.

For further information contact the Department of Banking's Consumer Affairs Division, at 860-240-8299, or toll-free, at 1-800-831-7225.