Many people start the new year with resolutions to lose weight or stop smoking. But what about getting your financial life in order? State Division of Consumer Protection spokesman Brock Bergey says it’s a good option to add to the list, and it starts with getting a copy of your credit report to look over.
Bergey says the reports, available for free through the three major credit reporting agencies, can show you what kind of financial activity is on your record. They can also help you spot potential risks to your credit score and if you might have been the victim of identity theft in the past year.
Bergey says you should check your report for purchases, lines of credit, or loans you never took out. If you find that evidence, he says you should contact DATCP. The agency can provide advice on how to undo the damage and on protecting your credit from further harm.
