by Alexis Cala, PICurrent Assistant Producer
Courtesy of B Rosen
Trying to get a job today is hard enough, but a credit check by a potential employer might make it even more difficult.
Credit cards and quick cash seem like a lifeline when no one else can help. Unfortunately, as many are finding, racking up debt can cost more than you think. While employers running credit checks is not a new thing, more organizations are using your credit to narrow down stacks of applications. Even the most qualified applicants are being turned down because of poor credit.
Although bad credit alone isn’t usually a reason to be denied a job, some employers are now using it to check your judgment. Too many negative marks might look like bad decision-making and could ultimately cost you a job. It doesn’t seem fair, but in most states it’s perfectly legal. For the millions of people dealing with foreclosure, debt, and bankruptcy this means that the worse off you are, the harder it may be to find work (read the full story on The New York Times).
Do you know what’s on your credit report? If you’re looking for a job, now may be a good time to check your credit. Employers are required to ask before running a credit check. Make sure you know what’s on there before you miss out on a job opportunity. Find out how to get a free credit report, here.
If your credit is less than perfect, check out The Beehive for credit help and to find a counselor who can get your credit score back on track.
