Although the lending company takes a risk in offering credit, they are also bound by laws to fulfill certain requirements when doing so. As a consumer, you are endowed with credit card consumer rights - things which must be done by the company or otherwise the credit deal is unlawful. As a consumer, you should understand the importance of your credit report, and the importance that should then be associated with protecting your rights. First and foremost, your position as a consumer and borrower allow you to view your credit report periodically, at a minimum of once per year. Credit reporting bureaus are required to give you one free report per year, whenever you request it. In regards to your credit report, you also have the right to ensure completion and accuracy, as well as be informed of who has accessed your report in recent years. Outside of these rights concerning your credit report, you must also be granted credit without discrimination, fair debt collection, and proper billing.