How to check your credit score

Checking your own credit is a soft inquiry. It never lowers your score, no matter how often you do it.

Quick takeaways

Checking your own credit is always a soft pull.
AnnualCreditReport.com is the official free report source.
Read the report, not just the number.

Free sources

Many banks and card issuers show a score in their app. You can also get your full reports from all three nationwide bureaus at AnnualCreditReport.com, the site created under federal law for exactly that purpose.

Score versus report

The score is a summary; the report is the evidence. You cannot dispute a score. Always read the report, because that is where errors are visible and fixable.

A simple routine

Check one score monthly to watch direction, and read all three full reports at least once a year — or before any big application.

Want someone to look at your actual reports?

Start the free intake and a Knox specialist will walk your file with you — what can be challenged, what should stay, and what to do next. No cost, no obligation.