How to Handle a Job Applicant Credit Check

Many organizations run credit checks on job applicants and use that information as part of the process when making hiring decisions. A Society of Human Resources Management (SHRM) survey indicated that 60% of employers check the credit of at least some job applicants.  Only 13% of the employers in the survey ran credit checks on all applicants.  A more common practice was checking the credit history of finalists and using this information to rule out candidates with questionable backgrounds.

Job Applicant Credit Checks

A job applicant credit report will show details about you and your finances, including your name, address, previous addresses, and social security number. The report will not contain your age or precise credit score.
It also shows the debt you have incurred including credit card debt, mortgage, car payment, student loans, and other loans. Your payment history is disclosed, including late payments and defaulted loans.
Before a company can check your credit, they need your permission. What they discover can create problems for job applicants. Especially if you've been unemployed, it can be hard to have a good credit history.