Q&A: How do I check my credit score with my SSN?

Answer: Wanting to check your credit score using your Social Security Number (SSN) is a smart move, as it’s part of keeping a healthy financial life. Here’s how you go about it.

Firstly, you’ll need to find a reputable website or service to check your credit score. There are several online platforms, like Credit Karma, Credit Sesame, or even some banks and credit card issuers, that allow you to check your score for free. Once you choose a service, you’ll need to create an account.

During the account setup, you’ll be asked for personal information, including your SSN. This isn’t something to be alarmed about; it’s a standard part of the process. They use your SSN to pull your credit information accurately and confirm your identity, ensuring no one else can access your info. It’s super important to make sure you’re using a reputable service to avoid any privacy issues.

After you’ve entered your details, the service will retrieve your credit score from one or more of the credit bureaus. Along with your score, you often get info on the factors influencing it, which is handy for understanding what areas might need some work.

Remember, checking your own credit score doesn’t hurt it in any way. It’s known as a soft inquiry and is different from a hard inquiry that a lender might do when you apply for credit. It’s a good habit to check your credit score regularly, not only to know where you stand but also to catch any errors or signs of identity theft early on.

Just a heads up, while your credit score can be super informative, it’s also a good idea to check your full credit report periodically. You can get a free copy of your report from each of the three major credit bureaus through AnnualCreditReport.com. This lets you see all your credit activities, not just your score.