So far in 2023, Crime Victim Services has helped 66 people who had credit accounts opened in their names, or credit cards stolen or misused. With identity thefts growing by the day, it’s important to monitor your credit report.

On Credit Check Wednesday, Nov. 29, 2023, five local financial institutions will once again coordinate with Crime Victim Services to offer free credit report checks in 19 locations.

We are grateful to local banks partnering in this effort for the 8th year to encourage the financial protection of community members.

The most popular consumer spending days are upon us: Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, Cyber Monday and Giving Tuesday. Taking steps to protect your finances during the vulnerable holiday season is important. Stop in on Wednesday, Nov. 29 to review your credit report at one of these locations.

Citizens National Bank: Bluffton, Elida and Lima branches.

First National Bank: Bluffton, Ottawa, Pandora and Lima Eastown Rd. branches.

Premier Bank: Ottawa branch.

Superior Credit Union: Elida Rd., Allentown Rd., Kibby St., Shawnee, N. West St., Delphos, Ottawa and Wapakoneta branches.

TopMark: N. West St. Lima, Allentown Rd. Lima and Cridersville branches.

You will need to bring picture identification. If you want to check your credit report on your own, go to: https://www.annualcreditreport.com/index.action. You can also order by phone: 1-877-322-8228. Checking your credit report does not affect your credit score.

Crime Victim Services serves all types of violent and property crime victims in Allen and Putnam Counties. Elder Victim Ministry serves victims aged 60 and above. Our services are free. Reach out at CrimeVictimServices.org or call or text us at 877-867.7273.