Apparently, studies show that 4 out of 5 credit reports (which determine what credit cards you can get and what loans you can get at what rates) have some sort of error on them (though it is often something along the lines of an address error). In the past, some credit card comapnies have paid for aq credit check for their customers, and you have been entitled to a free credit report if you werre denied a loan, but you have usually had to pay to see your credit report. A year ago, however, a law was passed entitling you to one free credit report every year. For those in western states (Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming), you'll be able to get your credit report free tomorrow (Dec 1st). Other states will be added through the course of the year, with the last states added in September. You can check when your state will be added at the link below.

You may have to retype this address ratrher than clicking the link because they have some odd security features, but go to:
http://www.annualcreditreport.com

You can also call 877-322-8228 or write
Annual Credit Report Request Service
P. O. Box 105281
Atlanta, GA 30348-5281.

The instructions for disputing any errors will be on the credit report.

The Midwestern states were added a few days ago. The process was pretty simple and I'm glad to say there weren't any mistakes on any of mine.

Thanks to Clare for making a post over on DP that reminded me of this.

I checked mine through Clare's link and everything was right except one address. I was listed as living at a past address that I never lived at. I don't know how a false address ended up in my report.

Southern states just went online a couple days ago, so If you live in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missisppi, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tenessee, or Texas, you can get your free credit check now.