Checking your credit rating is straightforward and can be done through several accessible methods. Here are the easiest ways to do so in Canada, based on current practices as of August 13, 2025:
- Use Free Credit Bureaus Services
- Equifax Canada: Visit Equifax.ca to request a free credit report by mail or online. You’ll need to verify your identity with details like your Social Insurance Number (SIN) and address. Equifax offers a free credit score through its online portal if you sign up for an account.
- TransUnion Canada: Go to TransUnion.ca to access your free credit report. You can also get your credit score for free by enrolling in their online service. Both bureaus are required by law to provide one free credit report annually, though scores may require additional steps or a subscription.
- Leverage Online Platforms
- Borrowell: Sign up for a free account at Borrowell.com, which partners with Equifax to provide your credit score and report without impacting your score. Updates are typically monthly.
- Credit Karma: Available at CreditKarma.ca, this service offers free access to your TransUnion credit score and report. It’s user-friendly and provides tips to improve your score.
- Mogo: Mogo.ca offers free credit score monitoring with monthly updates, along with identity fraud protection features.
- Check Through Your Bank or Financial Institution
Many Canadian banks, including RBC, TD, Scotiabank, and CIBC, provide free credit score access through online banking platforms. Log into your account, navigate to the credit or financial health section, and check if they partner with Equifax or TransUnion to display your score. For example, RBC offers free TransUnion scores via its mobile app. - Request by Mail or Phone
If you prefer offline methods, contact Equifax (1-800-465-7166) or TransUnion (1-800-663-9980) to request a free credit report by mail. You’ll need to provide personal details and may need to mail identification documents. This method is slower but doesn’t require an online account. - Monitor Through Paid Services (Optional)
For more frequent updates or detailed insights, consider paid services like Equifax Complete or TransUnion Credit Monitoring, which provide real-time alerts and detailed reports. These typically cost $15–$20/month but aren’t necessary for basic checks.
Tips for Success:
- Verify Identity: Have your SIN, driver’s license, or other ID ready to access reports.
- Check Regularly: Review your report annually for errors or fraud, as discrepancies can affect your score.
- Protect Your Score: Checking your own credit (a “soft inquiry”) doesn’t impact your score, unlike applying for loans.
- Correct Errors: If you spot inaccuracies, contact Equifax or TransUnion to dispute them, providing supporting documents.
Posts on X highlight Borrowell and Credit Karma as popular choices for free, quick access, with users praising their simplicity. For detailed insights, the Government of Canada’s website (canada.ca) offers guidance on credit reports and scores, emphasizing your right to free access.
Sources: Government of Canada, Equifax Canada, TransUnion Canada, Borrowell, Credit Karma, Mogo