Other Languages{UPDATE: The deadline to register for benefits was September 24, 2008, and has since passed.}
TransUnion recently reached a preliminary agreement in a class action lawsuit, under which millions of consumers will get their credit score and up to nine months of credit-monitoring service for free. The settlement applies to any consumer who had a credit card, loan or credit account between January 1987 and May 28, 2008. Eligible consumers will be able to select from these options:
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Free credit monitoring for six months. If you choose this option, you may also request to receive a cash payment if there’s money left over from the $75 million settlement fund. (If you receive the cash, however, you won’t be able to file an individual lawsuit against the defendants.)
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Free credit monitoring for nine months. If you choose this option, you won’t be entitled to any cash payment. (You also will not be able to file an individual lawsuit against the defendants.)
The free credit score being offered by TransUnion is its own product and not an actual FICO credit score. Your three-digit score helps lenders determine whether you're a good risk for a mortgage, car loan or credit card.
To take advantage of the offer, register online at www.listclassaction.com or call 1-866-416-3470.
The case, filed in federal court in Chicago, claimed that the credit bureau had violated the Fair Credit Reporting Act when it sold consumer information to businesses for their targeted marketing efforts.
(Thanks, Consumer Smarts.)