How to Request a Credit Report Before a Job Interview

Employers sometimes check an applicant's credit report as part of the job-screening process. Having a good report can help you get a job, whereas a poor credit history might cause the employer to choose another candidate. This is because poor credit history can suggest irresponsibility or be a predictor of financial stress that could hinder your job performance. In addition, jobs that involve working with money might require that you have a positive credit history. Before you interview, check your credit report to ensure that it is accurate and see what you can do to improve it.

Instructions

1

Go to the Annual Credit Report website (see Resources).

2

Select your state of residence from the drop-down menu and click "Request Report."

3

Fill out the required personal information to locate your credit report.

4

Select the credit bureau from which you would like to receive the report. You get only one free report from each bureau each year. If you would like, you can order all three at the same time, but you will not be eligible for another free report for a whole year.

5

Follow the links to view your report at the credit bureau website. You might have to answer a few questions to confirm your identity before you view the report.

6

Look over your report for errors and areas for improvement. For example, if your credit card balances are close to their limits, you could pay down the balances to improve your credit.