Hi Mtg,
A prospective employer cannot do a credit check w/out your authorization (signature), so if you don't feel comfortable w/ the process, don't sign that form. Now, you probably won't be considered for the job, but at least you have control over the process. As Silly said, some employers probably abuse the process in order to screen folks out vs. in. Employers used to only do credit checks for security clearances, positions involving money, etc. But, I've read recently it's becoming more the norm for employers to do credit checks, even for jobs it does not make any sense to do a credit check for (non-money handling jobs). Studies have indicated that credit ratings have little correlation with job performance, overall. So, credit checks are an outdated tool and relied upon much too much by (less progressive) employers in their hiring process. I've also read that credits checks are used by some employers as a tool to discriminate against certain segments of the population (historically, African Americans, women). It provides legal justification to discriminate, in gen'l. So, my suggestion is that if you have to go through the stressful process, make sure you really want that particular job! If you really want a particular job, and agree to a credit check, keep in mind that it is ONE factor considered in the hiring process by prospective employers. I don't believe it's used as the SOLE reason to deny employment. You may want to forewarn and be honest w/ the prospective employer about your situation before they run a report. Honesty is always the best policy. If you don't get it, their loss, right ?
Also, from what I understand, a credit score is not provided to prospective employers, just your payment history, outstanding debts, etc, overall financial history. As it's an employers' market, they are taking advantage of the unemployed masses by making everyone jump through unnecessary hoops, even for that run o' the mill job
. Good luck!
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