Credit reports contain financial history and can go back 15 years. Creditors base their decisions to extend credit to an applicant based on what is contained in the credit report. You should routinely look for errors in the report and prior to applying for a loan.

Personal and Employment Information

Personal information including name, social security number, address, birthday, and the date information was added is contained in all credit reports. Current and former employers, length of employment, wages, separation dates and contact information is also included.

Statistics and Summary

Statistical information pertinent to the applicant's geographical location is listed as well as a section containing a summary of all accounts with the amount due, available balance, payment history and current status.

Credit Lines and Inquiries

Inquiries from prospective employers, creditors, landlords, and information about them is in the report along with information about every current and previous line of credit.

Negative Information

Negative information such as judgments against the individual, accounts in collection for nonpayment, along with comments or disputes from creditors is listed.

Considerations

Information about everything pertinent to a person's creditworthiness is contained in a credit report. Religion, race, national origin, gender, lifestyle, and information not necessary to establish financial responsibility is not included and can not be considered.

Source:

Free Annual Credit Report