Start with the official free-report instructions
The Government of Canada’s report-access page links to both bureaus and explains online and other request methods. Follow the route for the product you want, and check the domain before supplying identity information. Identity verification may be necessary to obtain a report, but you should provide those details only through the bureau’s verified process.
Free report, score and monitoring are different products
A report is an account-history record. A score is a numerical measure. Monitoring can include notifications or other features and may have subscription terms. Do not assume one “free” banner means everything on the next screen is free. Review whether you are selecting a one-time report or agreeing to an ongoing service before entering payment details.
If online identity verification does not work
Use the bureau’s alternative request instructions rather than repeatedly trying different personal information. Keep the error message for your own reference and confirm what documents the official process accepts. Never send passwords or identity documents to a third-party lead form as a workaround. Our form cannot unlock an Equifax or TransUnion account.
Once you have the report
Save a dated copy securely and review it in a consistent order. If you are comparing two bureau reports, compare account dates and status before interpreting a score difference. You do not need to buy a product merely because an advertisement appears beside the report. Choose the next action from the information you actually find.
Prepare for a conversation
- The bureau and product you intended to access.
- A verified official domain.
- Any subscription or renewal terms before accepting them.
- A secure place for the downloaded report.
You do not need account numbers, a SIN, banking credentials or uploaded documents to start our enquiry.
Does checking my own credit report hurt my score?
FCAC says checking your own credit report or score does not affect your credit rating. That is different from a lender making a hard enquiry as part of a credit application.