If you haven't you really should, especially if you are thinking about financing a major purchase.

A low credit score can hurt your ability to get a mortgage, or at the very least it could result in a higher interest rate on your loan.

Too many credit cards, missed or late payments and a high level of outstanding debt can all contribute to a low credit score. Errors in the report can also negatively affect your credit rating.

It makes sense to check your credit rating now, before you apply for a loan. That way, you have time to repair your credit score or correct any errors in the report, before they can cost you money.

You can review your credit score by contacting the major credit bureaus. (You should contact all three, because there may be information on one report that does not appear on the others.) You can reach them at the following phone numbers:

	Equifax: 800-685-1111
	TransUnion 610-690-4909
	Experian (TRW) 800-682-7654