Who can get your credit report

Under the FCRA, a credit report may be obtained only:

• when authorized by the consumer in writing.
• when there is a legitimate business need in connection with a business transaction initiated by a consumer.
• when a consumer applies for credit.
• for the review or collection of a consumer's account.
• to review a consumer's account to determine whether the consumer still meets the terms of the account.
• for making "prescreened" offers of credit.
• for portfolio analysis of existing credit obligations.
• for employment purposes, including hiring and promotion decisions, when the consumer has given written permission.
• for underwriting insurance when a consumer has applied.
• for use by state and local officials in connection with determination of child support payments.
• to determine a consumer's eligibility for a government license or other benefit when the law requires consideration of the consumer's financial responsibility.
• when ordered by a court or federal grand jury subpoena.

It is not always necessary for a business to get your permission before reviewing your credit history. The “prescreened” or “preapproved” offers and for analysis of a business’s overall portfolio are examples of times you may not give your express permission.

The only time your written permission is required is for employment purposes. In most other instances, though, the application includes a clause explaining that by applying you are giving the business permission to review your credit history.

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