What Is a Credit Report? A Guide for New Immigrants in the USA
In this guide
Quick answer: A credit report is a statement with information about your credit activity and current credit situation, including your loan payment history and the status of your credit accounts. In the USA, three nationwide companies compile them: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. You can request one free copy from each every year at AnnualCreditReport.com.
What does a credit report show?
According to the CFPB, it includes your loan payment history and the status of your credit accounts. Landlords, lenders and others may use it, so it matters when you are new to the country.
Who creates credit reports?
| Company | Also called |
|---|---|
| Equifax | Credit bureau, consumer reporting agency |
| Experian | Credit bureau, consumer reporting agency |
| TransUnion | Credit bureau, consumer reporting agency |
How do you get your free report?
You can request one free copy of your credit report each year from each of the three companies at AnnualCreditReport.com. You can also request additional reports after receiving your free annual reports, but a credit reporting company can charge up to $14.50 for each of these.
New immigrants
You may not have a report at first. Read how to build credit as a new immigrant and what you need for an SSN or ITIN.
Common mistakes
- Paying for a report that you can get free.
- Never checking the report for errors. See how to dispute an error.
FAQ
Is a credit report the same as a credit score?
No. The score is calculated from the report. See what a credit score is.
Key takeaways
- Three companies hold your credit reports.
- One free report a year from each, at AnnualCreditReport.com.
- Check it for mistakes.
Related guides
- First 90 days in a new country
- Build credit as a new immigrant
- What is a credit score?
- Dispute a credit report error
- Renting in the USA as a new immigrant
Last updated: October 2026. Fees and rules change, so check the official page.
Sources
- CFPB: Credit reports and scores, key terms