Re: bankruptcy and getting job

[jane]

I would like to know if a bankruptcy filing will affect my chances of getting a job. I always had perfect credit before my bankruptcy, but when I ran my credit report, I noticed that the last place I worked ran a check on my credit report. Also, just before my bankruptcy, I got a letter from Citi Bank stating that my credit could ruin my chances of getting a cell phone, and a job. I need a good job to get on my feet.

[HHM]

I would like to know if a bankruptcy filing will affect my chances of getting a job. I always had perfect credit before my bankruptcy, but when I ran my credit report, I noticed that the last place I worked ran a check on my credit report. Also, just before my bankruptcy, I got a letter from Citi Bank stating that my credit could ruin my chances of getting a cell phone, and a job. I need a good job to get on my feet.

Could it ruin your chance of getting a cell phone, yes. Jobs are a little more tricky, the short answer is yes. But really, it depends on the type of work you do. This is an area in which generally I need to do more research. My general understanding is that an employer needs a legitimate purpose to check credit history as part of the job application process. Most employers do not routinely subscribe to credit reporting agencies because then they need to comply with FCRA...but many do (especially larger ones). Compliance with FCRA means that they need to put you on notice and provide adverse action notices if you are denied employment based on info provided in the credit report, most employers are not equipred to comply with FCRA.