If you’ve ever had your purse or handbag stolen, or have been the victim of identity theft then it may be worth checking your credit score.

Annual Credit Report provides a free credit report for people in the UK. At the moment it is only available for people in Cornwall, Devon, London, Wales and the West Country.

For people not in those areas there are two other options:
Experian Credit Expert or
Equifax Credit Watch
Sign up for a free 30 day trial, and once you have received your reports cancel the service.

For more information on how your credit rating works, read the excellent (and free) MoneySavingExpert.com.

If you are located in the US there are many ways to receive a free credit report, however I have not tried any so cannot recommend one particular source. Try searching on Google, or if you have experience of using one, please let me know.