Good credit is a must for buying a home, car, getting a credit card or securing a rental. A bad credit score can mean high interest rates and being turned down for a loan.

News 12's consumer reporter Janice Lieberman has The Real Deal on how you can check your credit for free.

You used to be entitled to one free credit report per year. Now the Federal Trade Commission says until December 2023 you are entitled to free credit checks every week from all three nationwide credit bureaus - Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.

All you have to do is log onto AnnualCreditReport.com, or call 877-322-8228.

Make sure you only use this site, as there are copycat scam sites that look similar and offer free credit help.

Once you receive your report, it’s your chance to clear up any mistakes, see if there is an identity fraud.

Identity fraud can mess up your credit for years. Report anything suspicious to:

IdentityTheft.gov for help in clearing up fraudulent charges.

Checking your score frequently will not jeopardize your score.

Before you set out to borrow money, or apply for a new job, get your credit score and fix any problems or outstanding debt if you can.

If you have a story idea, question or tip, click here to reach out to Janice.