Credit Bureaus Overview
Credit Reporting Agencies
Equifax
Overview:
Equifax is one of the three major credit reporting agencies in the United States. It collects and aggregates information on over 800 million individual consumers and more than 88 million businesses worldwide. Founded in 1899, Equifax is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, and operates in 24 countries.
How It Works:
Equifax collects data from various sources, including financial institutions, creditors, and lenders. This data includes credit accounts, payment history, and public records like bankruptcies. Equifax then compiles this information into a credit report and calculates a credit score, which lenders use to assess creditworthiness. Consumers can request their credit reports, dispute inaccuracies, and place fraud alerts or credit freezes.
Contact Information:
Website: Equifax
Customer Service: 1-888-548-7878
Mailing Address for Disputes:
Equifax Information Services LLC
P.O. Box 740256
Atlanta, GA 30374-0256
Experian
Overview:
Experian is another leading global credit reporting agency. With its headquarters in Dublin, Ireland, and operational headquarters in Costa Mesa, California, Experian serves clients in more than 37 countries. It provides comprehensive credit data and analytics to help businesses manage risk and individuals manage their credit profiles.
How It Works:
Experian gathers credit information from various sources such as banks, credit card companies, and public records. This data is used to create individual credit reports and scores, which are used by lenders to evaluate credit applications. Experian offers credit monitoring services, identity theft protection, and credit education resources for consumers.
Contact Information:
Website: Experian
Customer Service: 1-888-397-3742
Mailing Address for Disputes:
Experian
P.O. Box 4500
Allen, TX 75013
TransUnion
Overview:
TransUnion is a major credit reporting agency based in Chicago, Illinois. It operates in over 30 countries and provides credit information and information management services to businesses and consumers. TransUnion was founded in 1968 and has become a trusted provider of consumer credit reports and risk management solutions.
How It Works:
TransUnion collects credit data from creditors, lenders, and public records to generate credit reports and scores. These reports help lenders make informed decisions about extending credit. TransUnion also offers credit monitoring services, educational resources, and tools for consumers to manage their credit health.
Contact Information:
Website: TransUnion
Customer Service: 1-800-916-8800
Mailing Address for Disputes:
TransUnion Consumer Solutions
P.O. Box 2000
Chester, PA 19016-2000