Credit monitoring services can be an excellent way to safeguard against identity theft and fraud. These services can alert you to any changes in your credit reports and scores that may indicate that someone is attempting to open accounts in your name or use your credit without your permission.
There are numerous credit monitoring services available, so it is critical to select one that meets your needs and budget. Here are some of the best credit monitoring services available:
- IdentityForce
IdentityForce is one of the most well-known credit monitoring services. It provides several plans, including a free one that provides basic credit monitoring. Other identity theft protection services provided by IdentityForce include social media monitoring and dark web monitoring.
- LifeLock
Another well-known credit monitoring service is LifeLock. It provides several plans, including a free one that provides basic credit monitoring. LifeLock also provides credit restoration and lost wallet protection, among other identity theft protection services.
- Experian IdentityWorks
Experian IdentityWorks is a credit monitoring service provided by one of the three major credit bureaus, Experian. It provides several plans, including a free one that provides basic credit monitoring. Experian IdentityWorks also provides identity restoration and lost wallet protection in addition to identity theft protection.
- Equifax Identity Guard
Equifax Identity Guard is one of the three major credit bureaus’ credit monitoring service. It provides several plans, including a free one that provides basic credit monitoring. Equifax Identity Guard also provides identity restoration and lost wallet protection in addition to identity theft protection.
- TransUnion CreditMonitoring
TransUnion CreditMonitoring is a credit monitoring service provided by one of the three major credit bureaus, TransUnion. It provides several plans, including a free one that provides basic credit monitoring. TransUnion CreditMonitoring also provides identity theft prevention services such as identity restoration and lost wallet protection.
Choosing a Credit Monitoring Service
There are a few things to consider when selecting a credit monitoring service:
- Price: The cost of credit monitoring services can range from free to more than $30 per month. Choose a service that is within your price range.
- Credit monitoring services provide a number of features, including basic credit monitoring, identity restoration, and lost wallet protection. Select a service that includes the features that are most important to you.
- Usability: Credit monitoring services should be simple to use and navigate. Choose a service with an easy-to-use website and mobile app.
How to Make the Most of a Credit Monitoring Service
After you’ve decided on a credit monitoring service, you’ll need to set up an account and enter your personal information. After that, the service will monitor your credit reports and scores and notify you of any changes.
Even if you don’t receive any alerts from your credit monitoring service, you should review your credit reports and scores on a regular basis. Log in to your account on the credit monitoring service’s website or mobile app to do so.
If you notice any changes to your credit reports or scores that you don’t recognize, contact the credit bureau right away to report the fraud.
Tips for Lowering the Cost of Credit Monitoring Services
Here are some suggestions for lowering the cost of credit monitoring services:
- Compare prices from various providers. Credit monitoring services can be expensive, so compare prices from different providers before deciding on one.
- Consider a no-cost plan. Many credit monitoring services provide free basic credit monitoring plans. A free plan may be a good option if you’re on a tight budget.
- Look for bargains. Many credit monitoring services provide discounts to students, seniors, and military personnel. Make certain to inquire about any discounts that may be available to you.
Conclusion
Credit monitoring services can be an excellent way to safeguard against identity theft and fraud. These services can alert you to any changes in your credit reports and scores that may indicate that someone is attempting to open accounts in your name or use your credit without your permission.
There are numerous credit monitoring services available, so it is critical to select one that meets your needs and budget. When selecting a credit monitoring service, consider the price, features, and ease of use.
Once you’ve decided on a credit monitoring service, keep an eye on your credit reports and scores on a regular basis. If you notice any changes that you do not recognize, contact the credit bureau as soon as possible to report the fraud.
