Iowa House of

Representatives

For Immediate Release For More Information:

Tuesday, March 01, 2005 Rep. Reichert, 515-281-3221

Reichert Encourages Iowans to Order Free Credit Report

Des Moines, Iowa – State Representative Nathan Reichert of Muscatine encouraged Iowans to order free copies of their credit report today. Starting March 1, every Iowan can receive a free copy of their credit report once each year.

“It’s only fair that Iowans get to see what information about them is used when you join a bank or apply for a credit card, home mortgage, or auto loan,” said Reichert. “Every Iowan deserves to know what is in their credit report and how to fix mistakes if they occur. I hope every Iowan will take advantage of this new law and protect their credit history.”

To order your free credit report, go to www.annualcreditreport.com, or call toll-free to 877-322-8228, or write to Annual Credit Report Request Service, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, Georgia 30348-5281. Iowans are entitled to receive one free copy of their credit report from each of the three consumer credit companies -- Trans Union, Experian, and Equifax.

“Over the last several years, computers and technology have made it easier for our personal information to end up in the wrong hands. Identity theft has become a major problem and it can ruin your credit over night. Keeping a close eye on your own credit report is a good way to prevent problems in the future,” concluded Reichert.

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