How can you find out what's contained in your credit report and why your credit is bad?

Why do you think your credit is bad? Have you been turned down or seen a change in your insurance rates? I'm not sure about elsewhere, but in Florida, your credit rating affects insurance premiums! Personally, I don't think that's fair, but that's how it works here.:mad:

In most states, if you've been turned down for credit, you can request a free credit report. I would stay away from the websites that offer credit monitoring... they will eventually charge you for their service, as per my experience. You can also contact your financial institution for advice. One of the more common credit reporters is Equifax. Go to their website and get the toll-free number. Call that number, from your home phone, and you'll be walked through a voice menu to help you obtain you free report (usually available free, once a year or so)

It is US Federal law that you can get one free credit report per year. Its also the law, that if you are turned down for credit because of your credit report the credit bureau has to send you a copy of the report on request. The turn down letter should detail how to make that request.

Otherwise go to freecreditreport.com and request your free report.