Check your credit reports before you apply

You are about to open AnnualCreditReport.com, the official site for free credit reports from the three nationwide credit bureaus, Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.

• It is free. You don't need a credit card, and you shouldn't be asked to pay for your reports there.
• Checking your own report doesn't affect your credit score.
• Look for accounts you don't recognise, wrong balances or late payments that aren't yours, and dispute errors with the bureau.

With accurate reports, you'll know roughly what rates to expect when you prequalify with lenders.