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January 12, 2009
Accessible Credit Reports
Federal law requires the three major credit reporting agencies in the United States to provide consumers with one free credit report each year. These reports are available on line on Annual Credit Report Website.
On-line reports available through this site are now designed to meet the standards set forth in Priorities 1 and 2 of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). For security purposes, the site includes a CAPTCHA designed to prevent computers from hacking into the site. There is an alternative, audio CAPTCHA for blind consumers who cannot see the standard visual image of distorted letters and numbers.
Ordering by Telephone
People who are blind or visually impaired within the meaning of the Americans with Disabilities Act may order Braille, Large Print or Audio credit reports from any of the three credit reporting agencies by calling, toll free:
- 877-322-8228
Additional credit reports not covered by the free annual credit report system are also available in alternative formats. These may be ordered from each credit reporting agency individually at the following numbers:
- Equifax: 800-685-1111
- Experian: 888-397-3742
- TransUnion: 800-888-4213
Please note that when ordering a credit report by calling any of these numbers you will not reach a live person, but will be given the option of selecting Braille, Large Print or Audio formats.
Accessible Credit Report Agreement
The Accessible Credit Report Agreement was negotiated using the Structured Negotiations Process. The three companies have worked in good faith to negotiate and implement the agreement. If you are a person who is blind or visually impaired and encounter any problems in obtaining your free annual credit report, please Contact Lainey at LF@LFLegal.com . You can also read the Accessible Credit Report Agreement and the Credit Report Press Release on Lainey Feingold's web site.
Posted by Nancy at January 12, 2009 10:34 AM