Credit Reports

Credit Reports

A strong credit foundation starts with understanding what’s in your credit report and why it matters. Your credit report is a snapshot of how you’ve managed credit over time—and it's used by lenders, landlords, and even some employers to make important decisions.

What Is a Credit Report?

Your credit report is a detailed record of your financial behavior. It includes information about:

  • Your current and past credit accounts
  • Your payment history
  • Public records (like bankruptcies)
  • Credit inquiries

It’s compiled by the three major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—and is updated regularly based on information provided by creditors and public records.

Credit information like missed payments and accounts in collections can remain on your report for up to seven years, while closed accounts in good standing can stay for ten.

Why You Should Check Your Report Regularly

Reviewing your credit report helps ensure the information is accurate—and protects you from identity theft or fraud. Mistakes or outdated details can impact your credit score and financial opportunities, so it’s smart to monitor your report at least once a year.

What You'll Find in a Credit Report

Here’s what typically shows up:

Identifying Information
Your name, address history, Social Security number, and employment history.

Credit Accounts
Details about open and closed accounts, including balances, payment history, credit limits, and whether you’re an individual or joint account holder.

Credit Inquiries
Lists of who has accessed your report in the past two years—either because you applied for credit (hard inquiry) or a lender pre-screened you (soft inquiry).

Public Records
Includes bankruptcies, foreclosures, tax liens, and court judgments. These can significantly affect your credit and remain on your report for several years.

How to Get Your Free Credit Report

You're entitled to free weekly credit reports from each of the three bureaus via AnnualCreditReport.com
This is the only federally authorized site for free reports, so it’s your safest and most reliable option.

Want to check your FICO® Score? It’s available for free through myUSSFCU Online Banking. Log in anytime to stay in the know about your score.

Need to Dispute an Error?

If something on your report doesn’t look right:

  1. Contact the credit bureau that issued the report.
  2. Reach out to the creditor that supplied the incorrect information.
  3. Provide supporting documents with a clear explanation of the issue.

The credit bureaus are required to investigate your dispute—usually within 30 days.

More Financial Tools to Explore

Visit our Best Life Wellness Center for more tools and guidance on building strong credit, managing debt, and reaching your financial goals—at every stage of life.

The content on this page provides general consumer information. It is not legal advice or regulatory guidance. We do not endorse or guarantee the accuracy of third-party information.

Members' Voice Testimonials

This credit union is the best, I love the customer service and you can't beat the interest rates. I'm happy to be a member of this great credit union.

- James · Locust Grove, GA

The branch manager introduced herself and was extremely helpful. She stated that if there is anything we ever need to please let her know. Very positive experience!

- Larry · Cumberland, MD

Greta was absolutely amazing - as always. She makes me and my parents feel valued and supported. We are forever grateful. [The Credit Union] has been hugely supportive over many years. And we feel known and cared for.

- Eliza · Washington, DC

Long as I have been with the credit union, I haven't had any problems. I also like the protection on my account.

- Charles · Upper Marlboro, MD

My overall experience at the credit union was exceptional. The staff was hospitable offering water, my service was timely and professional and the office was well lit and clean.

- Denise · Washington, DC

As a member for more than 40 years, i have always had great service from the USSFCU and know that they stand behind their great reputation.

- David · Silver Spring, MD

A top rate Credit Union, [I'm] privileged to be part of! Thank you for all you do for our family! USSFCU Credit Union was able to resolve our financial situation - vehicle, personal loans, customer service/recommendations, within 6 months. We belonged to another credit union for over 20 years, with results not even close to comparison. We switched ...

- Manuel · Bowie, MD

Your people and products are amazing. The recent [online banking] overhaul is phenomenal. [I've] been electronic banking since Tele action phone banking - paying bills with my push button landline decades ago. USSFCU is light years ahead of everyone else in terms of ease of use and client experience!

- Misty · Brookings, OR

I have been a member for more than 30 years. I no longer reside in the DC area but continue to bank with USSFCU because of the ease and the customer service.

- Tamra · Denver, CO

I have been a member for over 50 years, and I have always gotten good service with loans, when I had to have service at a branch, and when I needed to have money sent to me from my savings account. The personnel have always been friendly and treated me with respect.

- John · Fort Washington, MD

I especially appreciate being able to quickly speak with someone (not a robot) and that person has always been knowledgeable and helpful.

- Bernard · Richmond, VA

Excellent customer service streamlined and transparent process. The representatives are efficient, knowledgeable, and understanding of the type of loans offered by Credit Union.

- Erwin · Ellicott City, MD

The USSFCU behaves as a credit union ought to behave. The staff works with and for the members, not for a corporate board. Interest rates for a car loan, a home improvement loan, and a mortgage are low and terms are transparent.

- Ruth · Takoma Park, MD

Staff are courteous and friendly to work with. Very knowledgeable about services and products offered or available. Excellent follow-up with customers.

- Jacquelyn · Sanford, FL

I have appreciated USSFCU services for many years since I left my work on Capitol Hill. I have appreciated the occasional webinars on purchasing a home or retirement planning.

- Jamie · Washington, DC

I have been a member since 2006, and have always appreciated the customer service response to any concern or query. In addition, as I have traveled extensively, USSFCU has provided support and access.

- Kathleen · Ukiah, CA

I've had a credit union account for decades, even though I no longer work on Capitol Hill. I now have two accounts. I've been able to do all of our banking remotely, by app or by phone.

- Richard · Washington, DC

I have been a USSFCU member for almost 20 years. There is nowhere else I want my money to be. I always receive excellent service.

- Nicole · Alexandria, VA

I deeply appreciate the stellar service, the proficiency, the professionalism, and the kindness. I am truly honored and grateful to bank with a financial institution that treats customers like family.

- Angela · Alexandria, VA

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