7/20/2004
By: News 24 Houston

Bad credit can cause all sorts of problems. But did you know that it could cost you your job?

Employers and the federal government routinely check credit reports on current and prospective employees -- and it's not a violation of privacy.

"They cannot screen unless you first give permission. Many times permission is sort of buried in the work application, so it's important that you read everything you sign your name to. If you're already employed, the employer must have your permission before they run a credit check on you. But, of course, if you refuse a credit check, that doesn't look good, either," said WorkSource Financial Aid Specialist Patricia Hibner.

A representative from the WorkSource tells us how bad credit can affect your career.

Employees have the right to refuse a credit check, but if they have a bad credit report, they also have the right to explain the reason for that bad credit.

"You also have the right to review your credit at any time, but the most important thing is probably to maintain good credit. Preventative measures are probably the best," said Hibner.

For example, find out what's on your credit record. Also, talk to your creditors -- communicate with the people to whom you owe money, and they'll work with you.

Mortgage Rates News, Mortgage News, Financial News