How can I keep an eye on my credit report?
Regular checks help you catch errors and fraud early, without paying for monitoring.
This guide helps you
- Understand why regular monitoring matters
- Use your free report entitlements to keep watch
- Decide whether paid monitoring is worth it for you
- Know what changes to look out for
- Find free help if something looks wrong
5 min
What's happening
Keeping an eye on your credit report helps you catch errors, unexpected enquiries and signs of fraud early, before they cause real harm. You can do this using your free report entitlements across the three bureaus, without paying for a monitoring subscription.
Your first steps
- Set a reminder to request your free report periodically.
- Rotate across Equifax, Experian and illion so you cover your full picture.
- Keep your past reports so you can compare changes over time.
Step by step
- Request a free report on a regular schedule, such as every few months.
- Compare it with your previous report.
- Look for new enquiries, accounts or listings you do not recognise.
- Check that paid-off debts show the correct status.
- Act quickly on anything that looks wrong, using the free correction process.
Watch out for
Paid monitoring products can be convenient, but they are not required, and you should not feel pressured into one to keep your file safe. The free reports cover the essentials. Be cautious of services that overstate the risk to sell a subscription.
Where to get free help
If monitoring turns up something concerning, a financial counsellor on the National Debt Helpline (1800 007 007) can help for free, and you can challenge errors or fraud through the free processes. See Merion Help for guidance.
Key takeaways
- Regular checks catch errors and fraud early.
- Free report entitlements let you monitor without a subscription.
- Compare reports over time and across all three bureaus.
- Paid monitoring is optional, not essential.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a paid monitoring service?
No. Your free report entitlements across the three bureaus let you monitor your file. Paid products add convenience but are not required.
How often should I check?
Checking every few months, rotating across the bureaus, is a reasonable habit. Use your free entitlements and compare with past reports.
What should I look for?
New enquiries, accounts or listings you do not recognise, and whether paid debts show the correct status. Act on anything that looks wrong.
This is general information, not legal or financial advice. Your situation is unique and rules can vary by state and over time — for advice on your circumstances, speak to a free financial counsellor (National Debt Helpline 1800 007 007) or get legal help.
Know your options, know your rights
A free, plain-English guide to dealing with debt in Australia — and the people who can help.