Every year, I make it a habit to complete three essential tasks. You should do the same. While it may seem like an extra effort, you’ll feel relieved knowing these tasks are taken care of.

1. Obtain Your Credit Report

Given the increasing frequency of data breaches and scams, checking your credit report is essential. You may discover issues that you wouldn’t catch otherwise.

The three major credit reporting agencies—TransUnion, Experian, and Equifax—are mandated to give you one free credit report each year. Great news! Here’s how you can request your free report from each agency:

◾ Online: www.AnnualCreditReport.com

◾ Phone: 877-FACTACT (877-322-8228)

◾ Mail: Fill out the Annual Credit Report Request Form and send it to: Annual Credit Report Request Service, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281

Note: Online requests are the quickest option. If you choose to submit your request via phone or mail, be prepared to wait around two weeks after they receive your request.

2. Review Your Medical Records

In addition to checking your credit report, it’s wise to review another type of report: your “health credit report,” often used by life insurance firms to assess your risk level.

Like financial credit reports, these health reports can also have mistakes, so reviewing them periodically is a smart idea. Fortunately, you have the right to access your health credit report whenever you wish.

Start with Milliman IntelliScript

This report includes prescription information if you’ve allowed an insurance company to access your medical records. To obtain your report, call 877-211-4816 and be prepared to provide:

◾ Your full name

◾ Your mailing address (plus an email if you prefer to receive it via email)

◾ Your phone number (in case they have questions)

◾ Your date of birth

◾ The last four digits of your Social Security number

◾ Your insurance company

Next, Contact ExamOne

ExamOne, part of Quest Diagnostics, evaluates your health risk based on previous lab tests. To request your report, call 844-225-8047.

Lastly, Reach Out to MIB Group

MIB Group, previously known as the Medical Information Bureau, keeps track of individuals applying for various insurance types during the past seven years. To view your MIB report, call 866-692-6901.

Keep in mind that some reports might take time to arrive, so plan accordingly. There’s no charge to check them, so it’s worth doing even if you’re not applying for insurance to ensure all information is correct.

3. Investigate Your Vehicle

Many vehicles currently have outstanding recalls. While some issues may be minor, others could mean your vehicle is unsafe to drive.

Your vehicle manufacturer should inform you about significant recalls, but this doesn’t always happen. Take charge:

◾ Step 1: Locate Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). It’s usually found in the lower driver’s side corner of the dashboard, visible through the front windshield, or on the driver-side door jamb.

◾ Step 2: Use the NHTSA recall lookup tool. Go to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) recall site, input your VIN, and you’ll see a list of any safety recalls relevant to your vehicle.

◾ Step 3: Update Your Vehicle Registration. Make sure your vehicle registration is current and that your contact details are accurate so the manufacturer can reach you if necessary.

If Your Vehicle Has a Recall

Recall services are typically handled by your car dealership. Call them to book an appointment and have your recall number handy, though they can also find the recall details in their system.

Recalls may deal with potentially hazardous issues, so have the repairs done as soon as possible. Many dealerships offer shuttle services, allowing you to drop off your vehicle and get picked up when it’s ready. If the recall situation is serious enough, they can even arrange for a tow.

Remember, repairs related to recalls are performed at no cost to you, including all necessary parts and software updates. What a deal!

The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and don’t necessarily represent those of YSL News. Stay updated with the latest tech info on the Kim Komando Show, America’s largest weekend radio talk show. Kim provides advice on everything from gadgets to online security. For daily tips and newsletters, visit her website.