There are three major credit bureaus (CBI/Equifax, Experian and Trans Union), plus many smaller regional and local bureaus.  If you have been denied credit you can get a free copy of the report the creditor used.  Otherwise, for a minimal amount (usually $8.00) you can obtain a copy of each credit report.  To be very thorough order a report from all three credit bureaus.  If possible get these as three separate reports, rather than one merged report. Sometimes it is more difficult to read the merged report.  The important point to understand is that failing to list a creditor/collection company/attorney can leave you exposed to that creditor even after your bankruptcy is completed.  The best philosophy is to list everyone, no matter whether or not you remember ever owing that creditor.  Also make certain to list all the debts of your ex-spouse that were incurred while you were married and debts which were business obligations.. 

When requesting a copy of the report make sure to include your full name, prior names, spouse's full name, all addresses used in the last 5 years, with zip codes, your social security number and date of birth.  Send that information to the addresses set forth below.  You also should include a copy of your driver's license which will verify your current address and your identity.  It normally takes 3-4 weeks to obtain this information.  

1)    Experian: PO Box 2104, Allen, TX 75013-2104.
       -  if denied credit in the last 60 days send letter to: 
       Experian, Attn: NCAC, PO Box 949, Allen, TX  75013-0949

2)   CBI/Equifax: (use a credit card to pay for your report). 

      800-997-2493, fax: 770-375-3150, or write to CBI/Equifax, PO Box 74021, Atlanta, GA

      30374-0241
       -  if denied credit in last 60 days send letter to:
       CBI/Equifax, PO Box 740256, Atlanta, GA  30374-0256

3)    Trans Union: PO Box 390, Springfield, PA  30374-0256
       -  if denied credit in last 60 days: call- 800-888-4213

Credit Scoring - 850 is the top score. FNMA has instructed that any score less than 620 dictates that the lender use extreme caution in making any loans.  The odds are that those with a score of less than 500 will fail to make their first payment in one out of three loans.  Knowledge is power - checkout www.myfico.com

(NOTE: If you find other resources for order credit reports please feel free to share them with our office.)