Fix errors on your credit report to prevent future problems. Credit report errors can result in an incorrect credit score- or worse. Tips to keep credit reports clean include reviewing credit card statements and credit report monitoring to prevent errors and stay safe from identity theft.

Reviewing Credit Card Statements to Unearth Mistakes

Review credit card statements monthly to stay on top of credit report problems. Errors are unlikely to appear on a credit card statement. However, it’s important to review credit card bills to make sure there are no mistakes or suspicious charges. In addition, promotional or introductory annual percentage rates (APR) will eventually expire. Knowing when an APR will expire can help decide whether to switch to a low interest credit card or a balance transfer card to defer the additional charges and save money. Late payments, missed payments or late payments on other lines of credit can also result in an unexpected increase in interest rates. Reviewing credit card statements can help mitigate sudden, unplanned expenses and avoid problems with identity theft.

Monitor Credit Reports to Avoid Problems

Monitor a credit report to avoid problems. An inaccurate credit score can result in getting turned down for an apartment or a job. It may also mean getting turned down for insurance, a loan or a credit card, or paying more in fees or interest rates if approved. Monitoring credit reports for errors can help mitigate problems and speed up the approvals process for new lines of credit.

Protect Yourself From Identity Theft by Monitoring Your Credit Report

Carefully monitoring a credit report and credit card statements can help protect you from identity theft. Unusual, unfamiliar or suspicious activities on a statement should be immediately reported to the credit card company. In addition, if identity theft is found through reviewing credit card statements, the credit reporting agencies should be notified. A credit report monitoring service identifies suspicious activities and quickly notifies you so you can decide if you need to take further action to protect yourself from identity theft.