Big three credit bureaus
There are three big credit reporting agencies, often called “The Big Three.” The Big Three are for-profit corporations that provide a service to businesses who extend credit to consumers. When loan officers want to put together a home loan for John and Suzy Homeowner, they can contact one or more of the Big Three to find out about the credit history of Mr. and Mrs. Homeowner. They pay the credit reporting agency for this service.
Who are the Big Three credit agencies?
Through a long history of mergers and acquisitions, the major players in the credit reporting business have narrowed down to the following companies:
- Equifax
(800) 997-2493
P.O. Box 740241
Atlanta, GA 30374-0241
Experian
(888) 397-3742
P.O.Box 2104
Allen, TX 75013-2104
TransUnion
(800) 916-8800
P.O. Box 2000
Chester, PA 19022-2000
You can contact them to request a copy of your personal credit profile for free, but make sure you read their rules for requesting the information.
