Not all websites are equal when it comes to free credit reports

A simple question from Willie: He wants to know where you can go online for free copies of your credit reports.

By law, the major credit reporting companies -- Experian, Equifax and TransUnion -- are required to provide one free copy of your credit report each year.

ASK LAZ: Smart answers to consumer questions

Unfortunately, a number of other businesses have tried to exploit the law by creating me-too websites that look like they offer free reports but actually end up charging you for things.

So where should you really look? And how can you monitor your credit files throughout the year without paying a dime?

Check out today’s Ask Laz video.

If you have a consumer question, email me at asklaz@latimes.com or contact me via Twitter @Davidlaz.