How to Check a Credit Score for Someone Under 18

A credit score serves as a numerical representation of an individual’s creditworthiness. This three-digit number, typically ranging from 300 to 850, helps lenders assess the risk of extending credit. A higher score generally indicates a stronger financial standing. For adults, credit scores are important for accessing loans, securing housing, and even obtaining certain types of employment or insurance.

Why Minors Do Not Have Credit Scores

Minors, individuals under 18, generally do not possess credit scores. This is primarily due to legal frameworks surrounding contracts; minors cannot enter into legally binding agreements that form the basis of most credit accounts. Without the ability to legally obligate themselves to repay debt, minors cannot independently open credit cards, loans, or other financial products that generate a credit history.

The absence of a credit score for someone under 18 is normal and not a cause for concern. A credit score is derived from a credit file, which details an individual’s credit activities. Since minors typically do not engage in credit-generating activities in their own name, there is no data for credit bureaus to compile into a report or calculate a score. This distinction between a credit score and a credit file is important, as even a credit file is rare for minors.

When a Minor Might Have a Credit File

Despite the general rule, a minor might possess a credit file, though rarely a calculated credit score. One instance is when a minor is added as an authorized user on a parent’s credit card. In this scenario, the parent’s credit activity, including payment history and account age, may be reported to credit bureaus under the minor’s name. This can help establish a credit history for the minor, assuming the primary account holder manages the account responsibly. However, not all credit card issuers report authorized user activity for minors, or they may only do so once the minor reaches age 18.

Identity theft is a common reason for a minor to have a credit file. Fraudsters may use a minor’s Social Security number to open accounts, apply for credit, or even secure employment. Signs of potential identity theft can include the minor receiving unexpected mail from creditors, pre-approved credit card offers, or even collection calls for debts they did not incur. In cases of suspected identity theft, parents or legal guardians can request a credit report for their minor child from each of the three major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—to investigate fraudulent activity. This process is distinct from checking an adult’s credit score, as its purpose is solely to identify and address unauthorized accounts.

Protecting a Minor’s Financial Identity

Parents and guardians can protect a minor’s financial identity and guard against identity theft. One effective step is to place a credit freeze on the minor’s Social Security number with Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. A credit freeze restricts access to the minor’s credit file, preventing new accounts from being opened in their name without consent.

To initiate a credit freeze for a minor, parents typically send a written request with specific documentation to each credit bureau. Required documents include copies of the parent’s government-issued identification, proof of the minor’s identity (such as a birth certificate and Social Security card), and evidence of the parental or guardianship relationship. Even if a minor does not currently have a credit file, requesting a freeze often prompts the creation of a file that is immediately frozen, adding a layer of protection. Regularly reviewing financial statements for any accounts linked to the minor and securely storing sensitive documents like Social Security cards and birth certificates are additional safeguards. Educating children about financial responsibility and protecting personal information also prepares them for future financial independence.

Building Credit and Checking Scores After Age 18

Upon reaching 18, individuals gain the legal capacity to enter into contracts, enabling them to establish their own credit history. Common methods for young adults to build credit include applying for student credit cards or secured credit cards. Student credit cards are tailored for limited credit history, while secured cards require a cash deposit that acts as the credit limit, mitigating risk for lenders. Consistently making on-time payments and keeping credit utilization low on these accounts are important practices for developing a positive credit profile.

Once an individual is 18 or older, they have various avenues to check their credit reports and scores. By law, individuals are entitled to one free copy of their credit report every 12 months from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion, accessible through AnnualCreditReport.com. Many credit card companies and financial institutions also provide free access to credit scores, often updated monthly, allowing individuals to monitor progress. Regularly reviewing these reports helps ensure accuracy and provides insight into one’s financial standing.