Washington, DC (NAPSI) - April 15 is a date many Americans view with some hesitation as they endure the paperwork needed to file their taxes. But with almost 75 percent of Americans receiving an average annual refund of $3,000, there is positive news for most. And many consumers find this a good reminder to annually update other financial records.

Start with records that might be less familiar. Consumers are aware they can get a free annual credit report from annualcreditreport.com. They should also know that they are entitled to other types of consumer reports that may be used if:

• Paying by check for a purchase

• Considering applying for insurance

• Planning to lease an _apartment

• Asked by a potential employer for their written authorization to get their work history.

“It’s smart to know what’s in your credit report before applying for home financing or an automobile loan. Similarly, there are times when it’s a good idea to exercise your right to check other sources of consumer information,” stated Stuart K. Pratt, president and CEO of the Consumer Data Industry Association.

Working with CDIA, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has put together a list of different types of consumer reporting agencies. “While not all companies will have information on every consumer, it’s a good idea for consumers to have a complete picture of information that may impact financial decisions about them. The CFPB website has a list of companies that have specialized databases dealing with other information that benefits consumers,” Pratt said.

You can find the list on the CFPB’s website (www.consumerfinance.gov). Type “consumer reporting agencies” into the search box or go to http://files.consumerfinance.gov/f/201207_cfpb_list_consumer-reporting-agencies.pdf.