Could I be turned down for a job because of something in my credit report?

Tip

Check your credit before starting a job search. Review your credit reports closely for mistakes and dispute any problems with the credit reporting company and the creditor that provided the information.

Hundreds of companies provide employment background checks and qualify as consumer reporting agencies. Employment reports often include credit checks, criminal background checks, public records – such as bankruptcy filings and other court documents – and information related to your employment history.

Employers can obtain your credit report under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) with your written permission, which they often do by asking you to sign a form allowing them to run a credit check. However, employers may be governed by other federal or state laws that may affect whether and how they can use this information.

If they pull your credit report, an employer must give you a copy of the report they looked at. They must also give you “A Summary of Your Rights Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act ” before turning you down because of information in your credit report.

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