Equifax's 800-846-5279 phone number is actually the customer service number for consumers. The difference between this number and the company's business number is that this one doesn't ask you whether you're getting help for a consumer or business account. Instead, it assumes you're getting assistance for a customer account without asking and takes you right into the main menu for the automated system.
Going through the automated system is a fairly simply process, although you do need to speak clearly at all times. The system will pick up on any stray noises, like it did when it asked me if I wanted to converse in English or Spanish and immediately cut off due to other noise. The system also initially couldn't recognize whether I wanted to check my credit score or report a credit issue, and I had to cycle through several sections before it was able to get me to the right spot.
Fortunately, the system has plenty of options and makes it easy for you to find the right one, even if it mishears what you would like to select at first. After scrolling through, I was able to ask for a credit report, and the system told me how to request it and what my delivery options were.
I asked for a credit report via Equifax to be sent through the mail, and the system brought me to the menu where I'd need to answer personal questions to continue onward. At this point, I ended the call rather than provide any identifying information.
Overall, I think this phone line functions well enough to provide basic instructions to anyone who needs it. I think the system gives customers easy access to answers for any questions they may have, and it doesn't waste time addressing a mistaken call trying to reach another branch of Equifax. This automated system recognizes that the average caller is going to have a limited window in which to call the company and will likely need to get help quickly with an important credit issue.
I would prefer that the system wasn't quite as sensitive to outside noises and was a little better at recognizing what's being said, but for the most part, it does the job well. That said, if you're unwilling to enter personal information, this number won't offer much help. I would only use this number if you're ready to provide that information.