This is something that perplexes many people. There are 3 credit bureaus. Why 3 credit bureaus, not 1? Should I get my free credit report from all 3 credit bureaus or just one of them? Are there any differences between the 3 credit bureaus, or at least the credit report that each of them hold on me, or are the 3 credit reports just the same?

Here’s what they say.

Q: Should I order a report from each of the three nationwide consumer reporting companies?

A: It’s up to you. Because nationwide consumer reporting companies get their information from different sources, the information in your report from one company may not reflect all, or the same, information in your reports from the other two companies. That’s not to say that the information in any of your reports is necessarily inaccurate; it just may be different.

Q: Should I order my reports from all three of the nationwide consumer reporting companies at the same time?

A: You may order one, two, or all three reports at the same time, or you may stagger your requests. It’s your choice. Some financial advisors say staggering your requests during a 12-month period may be a good way to keep an eye on the accuracy and completeness of the information in your reports.

There you have it. Your credit report could be different with each one. So why not get your credit report from each of the 3 credit bureaus, and why not take advantage of the suggestion to stagger your requests over the year. Good idea!