Get a Truly Free Credit Score Report: Save a Buck - AARP Bulletin

Free Credit Scores—Really

Is it possible? A really free credit score? Some sites promise a free credit score, but only as part of a “free trial” of another product such as a credit-monitoring service. If you don’t cancel the trial in time, your credit card is charged. Now you can get that magic number absolutely free from and . You will have to sign up and provide personal information, including your Social Security number. If you try both sites, you may notice a difference in the scores you get. That’s because Quizzle gives you the Experian score, and Credit Karma the TransUnion score. These two credit-reporting bureaus use slightly different calculation methods. “Remember that these free scores are not FICO scores,” says Curtis Arnold, CEO of . “The FICO score, developed by , is still the Cadillac of credit scores and is the one that most lenders use. These free scores may give you a false sense of security.” Equifax and TransUnion will also send you your FICO score—but not for free. Cathie Gandel is a freelance writer based in Bridgehampton, N.Y. Cancel You are leaving AARP.org and going to the website of our trusted provider. The provider’s terms, conditions and policies apply. Please return to AARP.org to learn more about other benefits. Your email address is now confirmed. You'll start receiving the latest news, benefits, events, and programs related to AARP's mission to empower people to choose how they live as they age. You can also by updating your account at anytime. You will be asked to register or log in. Cancel Offer Details Disclosures

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