Can I Run a Credit Report on My Child?

A credit report summarizes an individual’s borrowing and repayment history, playing a significant role in financial decisions. While adults commonly access their credit reports, the situation is more complex for minors, whose financial lives are typically nascent or nonexistent. This often leads parents to question how they might access such information for their children.

Accessing a Child’s Credit Report

Parents generally cannot proactively request a credit report for their minor child as they would for themselves. Credit bureaus do not typically maintain credit files for children who have no credit activity. A credit file is usually established only when an individual engages in credit-related transactions, such as applying for a credit card or a loan.

A child should not have a credit report unless specific circumstances arise, such as being an authorized user on a parent’s account. The presence of a credit report for a minor often indicates potential fraudulent activity. Therefore, the ability to obtain a child’s credit report is largely tied to suspicions of identity theft.

Recognizing Signs of Child Identity Theft

Identifying child identity theft can be challenging, as minors do not typically engage in financial transactions that would reveal fraudulent activity. However, certain indicators can alert parents to potential misuse of their child’s personal information. Receiving unexpected mail, such as credit card offers, loan applications, or collection notices addressed to the child, can be a significant red flag.

Another warning sign involves issues with government benefits. If a family is denied benefits because someone is already using the child’s Social Security number, it points to potential identity theft. Similarly, receiving notices from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) about unpaid income taxes or the child’s Social Security number being used on another tax return are serious indicators. Such occurrences necessitate investigating their credit report.

Requesting a Child’s Credit Report for Identity Theft

When child identity theft is suspected, parents can request their child’s credit report from the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. This process requires specific documentation to confirm the identities of both the parent and the child, as well as the parental relationship. Generally, a written request, often submitted by mail, is needed.

To prove the child’s identity, parents typically need to provide a copy of the child’s birth certificate and Social Security card. For the parent’s identity, a copy of a government-issued identification, such as a driver’s license, is usually required. Proof of address, like a utility bill or bank statement, may also be necessary. If the individual requesting the report is not the biological parent, documentation proving legal guardianship or authority to act on the child’s behalf must be included.

Some bureaus offer specific forms or online portals for child identity theft inquiries, but they usually direct parents to mail in the supporting documents. For instance, TransUnion provides a Child Identity Theft Inquiry Form. Experian also has a dedicated portal for minor credit report requests. Equifax typically requires requests to be sent by mail. It is advisable to send copies of documents, not originals, and to enlarge any items with small print to ensure legibility.

Responding to a Child’s Credit Report Findings

Upon obtaining and reviewing a child’s credit report, the next steps depend on the findings. If the report exists and shows fraudulent accounts or inquiries, immediate action is necessary. The first step involves reporting the fraud to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at IdentityTheft.gov, which provides a recovery plan and an Identity Theft Report. This report can be used as proof with companies and credit bureaus.

Contacting the companies where fraudulent accounts were opened is important to request their closure and to confirm the child is not liable. Subsequently, contact each of the three nationwide credit bureaus to dispute the fraudulent items and request their removal. It is also recommended to place a credit freeze on the child’s file with each bureau. A credit freeze restricts access to the credit file, making it more difficult for identity thieves to open new accounts.

If no credit report exists, continued vigilance is still important. Safeguard the child’s personal information, such as their Social Security number and birth certificate, by storing them securely. Ongoing monitoring for any unusual mail or activity addressed to the child helps maintain their financial security.