Credit reports are extremely important to individuals applying for a mortgage or any other type of credit. This report indicates your current outstanding debt and your ability to repay. Your report must be carefully monitored due to the increasing number of identity theft and credit fraud cases that have been reported in recent years. For $20, Equifax Canadawill give you access to your personal credit report. Go to www.equifax.ca to find out your credit score. It is imperative that people review this information every 12-18 months to ensure that the information is accurate and that all charges on your accounts are ones that you have approved. We, at Meridian Coastal Mortgages, are here to review and help counsel clients on their credit reports. We routinely find mortgages for clients who do have challenged credit and we can also assist clients with increasing their score over a short period of time. We guarantee the best possible rates for your situation and offer education on your credit which will serve you for a lifetime.

Here are FRAUD basics everyone should be aware of:

What is identity theft?
Identity theft occurs when an individual steals another person's identity and impersonates that individual. By using basic personal information like name, address and SIN number, identity thieves open credit card accounts, least or buy cars, rent apartments or even engage in criminal activity using the stolen name

How can I avoid being a victim of identity theft?
You can limit the potential for fraud by remembering a few key tips:

When using your credit cards:

• Carry only the identification and credit cards you need when traveling, whether locally or abroad.
• Do not carry your cards in your chequebook.
• If your chequebook is lost or stolen, call your bank and inform them of the cheque numbers missing.
• Sign your credit cards in permanent ink as soon as you receive them.
• When making a purchase, keep your cards in view at all times; ensure you take your card back as soon as a transaction swipe has been completed with your card.
• Do not sign a blank charge slip.
• Always save your receipts, never leave them behind.
• Avoid saying your account number aloud so that others can hear.
• Only provide your ID and credit card information over the phone to reputable companies when you have initiated the call.
• If you receive a call from someone claiming to represent your credit card issuer and caller asks for your account number, do not provide it - if the caller is employed by the issuer, they will already know your account information
• If your Social Insurance Card is lost or stolen, contact your Human Resource Development office immediately.