Credit Guide

The most important step that you can take for identity theft prevention is to order a new copy of your credit reports at least once a year to prevent being caught by surprise charges and accounts. You can request a free credit report from one of the many reputable credit companies available online or you can pay for a copy by requesting it directly through one of the major credit bureaus.

If you would like to check your credit report free of charge, visit www.credit-report-credit-score.com The sooner identity theft is caught, the sooner the damage that has been done to your credit can be repaired.

Other things you can do for identity theft prevention include the following tips: Don't carry unneeded credit cards, your Social Security card, your birth certificate or other personal documents in your purse or wallet. Keep track of all your ATM, credit card, debit card and other receipts. Either store these documents in a safe place or destroy them before putting them in the trash.

Additionally, if you have credit card accounts that you do not use, cancel them. Also, it is a good idea to keep a list of all of your credit card account numbers and the companies' telephone numbers so you can cancel them quickly and easily in case they are stolen or lost. Just be sure you choose a safe place to leave the hard copy.

Lastly, protect your Social Security number as much as possible. This number is one piece of information that is always needed to open bank accounts and apply for credit cards. Do not give it out to any person or company unless you are familiar with them and you have initiated the communication.

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Card Consolidation Credit Debt About The Author

This article was written by Beth Pardue who has over 10 years of experience in the financial industry assisting clients with assorted financial needs. To learn more about credit reports or to get a free credit report online please visit: http://www.credit-report-credit-score.com

LifeLock was founded last year by seasoned veterans in the fields of banking, payment, credit and security who set out to defend individuals from the onslaught of identity theft at a time when our personal information credentials are increasingly compromised through the mail, medical records, and the internet. They crafted a simple, active service for guaranteed ID theft prevention offered to the public for just $10 per month or $110 per year.} Already, many colleges and universities, professional associations, credit unions and others have chosen LifeLock as their preferred ID theft prevention partner.

Credit Union

If you come across any additional information or problems related to your identity, be sure to call the Identity Theft Hotline to update your complaint. 6. Look into services designed to help you restore your identity. Identity restoration can be a long, involved process. You may want to use an Identity Restoration Service to guide you through the entire process. They'll investigate your specific case, look for other signs of identity theft committed in your name, and help you file the proper paperwork and take the necessary steps to address the damage that's likely been done to your credit rating. The FTC is continually working to find additional, proactive steps for identity theft prevention. Be sure to visit the FTC website at //www.ftc. for rmation about restoring your identity and about identity theft prevention.

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