Why is the Credit Score look at when applying for a job?

Question

I understand on how important the credit score is when applying for an unsecured loan, a home, financing a car or trying to get a credit card but why is it a factor for job consideration? So any Human Resource people and/or Hiring Managers care to respond and explain why a person's credit score even comes into play?

Answer 1

There is a positive correlation between one's credit score and how responsible they are. The idea is that people with higher credit scores are a little more likely to show up for work on time, focus on their jobs, etc. And you see, maintaining good credit requires timeliness of paying bills and focusing on keeping track of all your bills.

Answer 2

There is also a perception that if you have a poor credit score and are in need of money there is an increased chance you may steal from the company you are working for. It is only one of many factors that some companies use to evaluate potential employees.

Answer 3

These days, nearly EVERYBODY checks your credit before they will hire you, even if you won't be handling money. My company does it, and not a single employee there has any way of stealing money from the company even if they tried! It would be in your best interest to look into credit repair, because it can be done legally.

Answer 4

Employers aren't allowed by law to look at a applicants "credit score" or worthiness of credit for consideration of employment. Unless they are applying to get some kind of business credit or lease from that business.
Most people aren't aware of that law, most people accept those kind of business practices as that's just the way it is, But its against the law in the US.
Even "backround" checks in most states are legally limited from employers, thats why the companies that require "backround" checks
go to firms out of their state.

Answer 5

Depending on the job, they look at credit scores in order to know what financial situation you are in. If you are severely in debt, you might be more tempted to accept bribes from competitors or release company secrets for money.

Answer 6

It shows how responsible you are. A low credit rating could represent a low sense of caring about your finances. If you don't care about your finances.... likely you don't have much care for being at work when you should be and being on time... etc.

Answer 7

They are not worried about your score, but your honesty. Some legal things appear, as well as charge offs - where you essentially stole money.

And, no, it is not illegal to use them as part of a back ground check.