When it comes to credit monitoring in Canada, the two official credit bureaus—TransUnion and Equifax—are the most authoritative sources for your credit information. While apps and banks provide useful snapshots of your score, these agencies maintain the official records that lenders use when making decisions.
Here’s what you need to know about accessing your reports through TransUnion and Equifax.
Why Check Directly with the Bureaus?
- Accuracy – These agencies hold your official credit file.
- Full details – You’ll see your credit accounts, payment history, and inquiries.
- Fraud protection – Early detection of suspicious activity or errors.
- Dispute process – You can correct inaccuracies directly with the bureau.
1. TransUnion Canada
What it offers:
- Credit score and full credit report access
- Credit monitoring services (alerts when changes occur)
- Fraud alerts and identity theft protection tools
- Dispute process for correcting errors
How to access:
- Online at TransUnion Canada
- By mail or phone request (for free reports)
- Through paid subscriptions for advanced monitoring features
✅ Best for: People who want to monitor changes in real-time and add fraud protection.
2. Equifax Canada
What it offers:
- Credit reports and scores
- Ongoing credit monitoring services
- Alerts for suspicious activity
- Fraud detection and identity protection packages
- Simple dispute process for correcting errors
How to access:
- Online at Equifax Canada
- By mail or phone for free reports
- With premium subscriptions for enhanced monitoring and identity protection
✅ Best for: Individuals focused on protecting their credit profile from fraud and ensuring accuracy.
How Often Can You Access Your Reports?
By law, you can request a free credit report once per year from each bureau. Many people alternate—ordering one from TransUnion mid-year and one from Equifax later—to keep tabs on their credit twice a year at no cost.
TransUnion vs. Equifax: Key Differences
| Feature | TransUnion | Equifax |
| Free Credit Report | Yes, once per year | Yes, once per year |
| Credit Monitoring | Available (paid) | Available (paid) |
| Fraud Alerts | Strong options | Strong options |
| Online Access | Yes | Yes |
| Identity Protection | Offered | Offered |
Key Takeaway
While apps and banks make credit monitoring convenient, TransUnion and Equifax remain the official sources of your credit data in Canada. Checking directly with them ensures accuracy, provides access to fraud protection tools, and allows you to correct errors that could otherwise affect your financial opportunities.
By combining reports from both bureaus, you’ll have the most complete and reliable view of your credit profile.
