We've all heard of it. We all know we have one and have probably spent a fair amount of time thinking about it, but the fact of the matter is that most people have never seen theirs. So, what is it? Our credit report. Oddly enough, even though our credit report influences just about every aspect of our financial life, most of us have never even seen ours, let alone know what our FICO or credit score is. Not only will understanding your credit report help you make important financial decisions, it can also help you see just what it is that is keeping you from getting the credit that you may need.
What Is A Credit Report?

A credit report is a document that includes all your pertinent personal and financial information. It will contain your full legal name, your social security number, previous and current addresses, date of birth, and current and previous employers. This information has been obtained from any previous credit applications you have filled out.

This report will also include information about any financial accounts you have now or have had in the past. This will include any loans, credit cards and their credit limits, monthly bills, and so on. It will also include the names of any other persons that may be responsible for payment on these accounts.

Any financial situations that you have been involved in that are public record will also be included. This means that judgements, tax liens, bankruptcies, overdue child support, etc., will also show up on this report.

Inquiries are also marked on your credit report. Anytime you apply for a loan, credit card, or anything that requires an institution to request a copy of your credit report, it will be noted.