Earlier this week, a viewer sent an e-mail to News 8 On Your Side asking for the safest way to actually get your credit report.
"There are lots of stories about checking your credit reports but I'm wondering which is the best way? What is safer, fax, snail mail or online to apply?" the viewer wrote.
There are three major credit bureaus: Equifax in Atlanta, Ga.; Experian in Allen, Texas; and TransUnion in Fullerton, Ca.
News 8 contacted all three of the credit bureaus and asked them the best way to order and receive your credit report.
If you received a copy of your credit report in the past, you most likely got it through the mail. But now, all three credit bureaus told News 8 that the fastest and safest way to get your report is online.
The credit bureaus said that by going online, you can get the report within minutes and it is much easier to read and understand when compared to the printed report and there's no paper copy generated unless you print it.
You can still get your credit report sent to you through the mail if you would like.
And as for receiving your credit report via fax, all three credit agencies said they've hung up on that possibility. It's just not secure.
Beginning this September, residents of Pennsylvania will be able to get their credit report for free, but only once each year. If you need to get a copy of your credit report before September, it will cost you, but no more than $9.50.
