Just a quick reminder to check your credit report before the end of the year. I know it’s last minute, but if you haven’t done so, get to it. Every year the government gives you a free credit report check so you can make sure there are no fraudulent inquiries on your record.

I do it every year for my family because identity theft can make your life miserable. When you run the check, you can get your report from the top three credit agencies: Equifax, TransUnion and Experian. While the credit report is free, you do not get access to your Fico score. To check your fico score, it costs $7.95, which in my opinion is well worth the cost. If you do see something on your report that doesn’t belong, you can report it to the credit agencies and follow the process to get it removed.

You can get your 30-day free credit report by visiting annualcreditreport.com or call 1-877-322-8228.