Finances

you can/should get your credit reports every year. You can do this from all three companies (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) once a year for free. You can order them all at once by calling the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-322-8228. They will ask for your phone number, address, name, social security number, and birthdate.

You can also OPT OUT of having credit cards companies "pre-approving" credit. To reduce the amount of credit card junk mail you receive, call 888-567-8688. They will ask for the same information. Opting out lasts 5 years.