Yearly Tech Checkup: How to Review Your Credit Report, Medical Data, and Car Recalls
Kim Komando, Special to USA TODAY
1. Pull Your Credit Report
Data breaches, hacks, and new scam tricks make reviewing your credit report essential. The three major credit reporting agencies (TransUnion, Experian, and Equifax) are legally required to provide a free credit report annually. Here’s how you can request yours:
- Online: www.AnnualCreditReport.com
- Phone: 877-FACTACT (877-322-8228)
- Mail: Complete and send the Annual Credit Report Request Form to P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281.
Online is the fastest route, while phone or mail requests may take up to two weeks.
2. Review Your Medical Data
Beyond financial credit reports, life insurance companies use health credit reports to assess risk. These can also contain errors, so it’s crucial to check them. You have the right to this information:
- Milliman IntelliScript: Has prescription data if you’ve authorized its release to an insurer. To request it, call 877-211-4816 and provide your full name, address, email, phone number, date of birth, and last four digits of your Social Security number.
- ExamOne: A Quest Diagnostics company that assesses health risks based on lab tests. Contact at 844-225-8047.
- MIB Group: Tracks insurance applicants over the past seven years. Request at 866-692-6901.
These reports can take time to arrive, so plan accordingly.
3. Check Your Car for Recalls
Millions of vehicles have open recalls, which can range from minor annoyances to serious safety issues. Here’s how to check:
- Find Your VIN: Located on the lower driver’s side of the dashboard or on the driver-side door jamb.
- Use the NHTSA Recall Tool: Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s recall lookup page and enter your VIN.
- Update Your Registration: Ensure your current address is up-to-date so the manufacturer can contact you in case of a recall.
If your vehicle has a recall, contact your dealership to schedule a service appointment. Recalls are typically addressed free of charge, including parts and software updates.
Dealerships often provide shuttle services or towing if the recall is severe. All repair work due to recalls is performed at no cost, encompassing parts and software.
For more tech tips and advice, visit the Kim Komando Show’s website.
Source: Yearly tech checkup: How to review your credit report, medical data and car recalls.
