Why is your credit checked for pre-employment. Isn't this an invasion of privacy??

Question

if you or someon else is not in a fiduciary position, then why should your credit be available to all and sundry and there is not guarantee that this will enable you to get a better job....

Answer 1

It is not an invasion of privacy. Companys are allowed to do the background check as a method to protect them from loss.

Despite what people think, credit information is easy to get. People you do not know can get your credit information without your consent for marketing purposes.

Answer 2

No, it won't guarantee you a shot at a better job; it will give your prospective employer something by which to guage your level of responsibility. And, there is theft and there is theft; if one is in a financial bind, one would be more likely to find a way to steal from the company whether or not one has access to actual company bank accounts and so forth. Would you want someone to be responsible for your business if that person cannot manage their own money?

Answer 3

Some employers want to know your credit history in order to determine whether or not you are reliable, trustworthy and not a high risk candidate.

Although it seems like an invasion, many companies don't want to take a risk on questionable hirees. It costs a lot to hire and train an employee. Why not use every tool at hand to make sure that your investment will benefit your company?

Answer 4

Credit can help employers see how you handle responsibility (The responsibility of credit). It's not an invasion of privacy if you sign a release form, which you have to do in order for them to get the information.

Answer 5

Sure, it is an invasion of your privacy, but do some research and you will find that your privacy can be invaded for many reasons. Employment checking is just one. If you have bad credit, learn how to clean it up. Bad driving records and bankruptcy will also cost you.

Answer 6

You have to sign a paper allowing them to check your credit and you have the option to refuse (may not get you the job but still a choice). They look for things like bankruptsy, evictions etc to see if you are responsible with your money, which may reflect that you are a responsible person.

Answer 7

I totally agree with you- this is an invasion of privacy. But, they do it to see if you have a propensity to steal. If you are in a LOT of debt, then they assume that you might have more of an urge to steal from the company.

Answer 8

One other thing i dont see mentioned is that you are more susceptible to things like being bribed or corrupt if you have financial problems. Actually i wish this happened more. Because i think too many people don't maintain good credit. maybe if they knew it would impact their employment possibilities they would. i like to hear of this idea. i knew the military and peace corps did it but i'm glad other employers are, too.

Answer 9

This is often done as part of a security clearance. The main reason is if in any way you might have a responsibility involving money, you may be tempted to resort to fraud or theft if you are on the brink of bankruptcy.

Answer 10

You don't have to apply so if you give them permission to check your credit then how can it be an invasion of privacy. I don't really like it either, but. . .