Typically, it’s illegal to obtain someone else’s credit report without their permission; however, there are a few exceptions to this rule. Also, there are circumstances where you can obtain their report with their consent. Let’s look at this more closely …
When You Need Their Consent
Usually, you can obtain someone’s credit report with their signed, written permission when they are prospective tenant. For instance, if you own an apartment building and the person wants to rent from you, you have a right to determine whether they are likely to keep up with their payments. In this case, you have them sign a release form then you can legally check their credit. You just have to include in your request why you intend to check their report so that the bureaus can confirm its validity.
When You Don’t Need Consent
There are a few instances where you don’t need consent before requesting a credit report. They are:
- When you’re checking up on a business. Suppose you’re trying to work out a major business deal with a company and need to know that they are in good standing credit-wise. In this scenario, you have the right to check up on the corporate entity without permission. You simply visit a bureau site and get to searching.
- When you’re checking on your child. Another instance where it’s okay to check a credit report without prior consent is if you’re checking on your child’s welfare. If you suspect that someone is trying to steal your child’s identity and is using his or her credit maliciously, you can request a copy of the report from all three credit bureaus. In order to do so, you need to have a copy of the social security card, birth certificate, and proof of your relation.
Remember, there are only a few instances that it’s appropriate to check someone else’s credit. Any attempts outside of this are illegal.