How to Check Your Credit Score as a Minor

While individuals under 18 generally cannot enter into credit contracts, a credit report can exist in a minor’s name. This can happen legitimately, such as being added as an authorized user on a parent’s credit card. Unfortunately, a more concerning reason for a minor to have a credit file is identity theft, where their personal information is misused. Understanding how to determine if a minor has a credit file and what steps to take if one exists is important for their future financial well-being.

Credit File Existence for Minors

Minors typically do not have a credit history or credit score because they cannot legally sign contracts for loans or credit cards. However, a credit file might be created for someone under 18 in specific circumstances. The most frequent legitimate reason is being added as an authorized user on an adult’s credit card account. When a primary cardholder adds a minor, the account activity may be reported to credit bureaus, potentially generating a credit file for the minor.

Another significant reason for a minor to have a credit file is identity theft. Fraudsters often target children’s Social Security numbers because these identities typically have a “clean” credit slate and may go undetected for many years. In rare instances, an erroneous credit profile might also be created if a minor shares a similar name with another individual, leading to mixed credit information. If a credit file exists, a credit score will only be generated if there is sufficient active credit history.

Information Needed to Request a Minor’s Credit Report

Before requesting a minor’s credit report, gather all necessary documentation. You will need the minor’s full legal name, date of birth, and Social Security Number (SSN). Also, compile a list of all current and previous residential addresses where the minor has resided.

For the parent or legal guardian submitting the request, your full legal name, date of birth, and SSN are also mandatory. You must provide proof of your legal guardianship, such as a copy of the minor’s birth certificate if you are a biological parent, or a certified court order if you are a legal guardian. Proof of current address for both the minor and the parent/guardian is essential. This can typically be satisfied with copies of a government-issued identification, like a driver’s license showing your current address, and a recent utility bill or bank statement. Many credit bureaus offer specific “minor request forms” or “child identity theft inquiry forms” on their official websites, which should be downloaded and completed.

Requesting a Minor’s Credit Report

Requesting a minor’s credit report typically involves a manual process, primarily due to privacy regulations concerning individuals under 18. The three major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—often require specific, written requests sent via mail. While some bureaus may offer online portals for initial inquiries, obtaining a comprehensive minor’s credit report frequently necessitates a mail-in submission.

When preparing your mailing package, include the completed minor request form, found on each credit bureau’s official website. Attach clear photocopies of all required identification and guardianship documents. This includes your government-issued identification, proof of your current address, the minor’s birth certificate, and their Social Security card. It is advisable to send these sensitive documents via certified mail with a return receipt.

The mailing addresses for these specific requests are:
Equifax: Equifax Information Services LLC, P.O. Box 105139, Atlanta, GA 30348-5139.
Experian: Experian, P.O. Box 9554, Allen, TX 75013.
TransUnion: TransUnion, P.O. Box 2000, Chester, PA 19016.
Always verify the most current mailing address for minor requests on each bureau’s official website.

After submitting your request, the credit bureaus will review the documentation to ascertain whether a credit file exists for the minor. You can generally anticipate a response within two to four weeks. If no credit file is found, you will typically receive a letter confirming no record exists. If a file is identified, they will provide a copy of the report or detailed instructions on how to access it.

Understanding a Minor’s Credit Report and Score

Once you receive a minor’s credit report, understanding its contents is important. In most instances, a minor’s credit report will be a “thin file” or entirely empty, indicating no credit history. This outcome is expected, as minors do not typically engage in credit activities. If there is insufficient active credit history, generally less than six months, a credit score will not be generated for the minor, even if a file exists.

If the minor was added as an authorized user on an adult’s credit card, this account may appear on their credit report. Consistent on-time payments and low credit utilization on the primary account can positively influence the minor’s nascent credit history.

However, if the report contains unexpected activity, such as accounts opened in the minor’s name, collection accounts, or inquiries from unfamiliar creditors, this often signals potential identity theft. Scrutinize personal information for accuracy, the accounts section for unauthorized lines of credit, and the inquiries section for any credit checks you did not initiate.

Addressing Errors on a Minor’s Credit Report

If a minor’s credit report contains inaccuracies or unauthorized activity, prompt action is necessary. First, dispute errors directly with each of the three credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—and the company that furnished the inaccurate information. For minors, a formal, often written, dispute process is frequently required, accompanied by supporting documentation. Provide copies of documents that substantiate your claim.

If unauthorized accounts are present, identity theft has likely occurred. Report this to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) through IdentityTheft.gov, which provides an Identity Theft Report and a personalized recovery plan. Filing a police report with your local law enforcement agency is also advisable, as some companies or credit bureaus may require it.

To prevent further fraudulent activity, consider placing a fraud alert or a credit freeze on the minor’s credit file. A fraud alert signals to creditors that they should take extra steps to verify identity before extending credit. A credit freeze restricts access to the credit report, making it difficult for new accounts to be opened in the minor’s name. You must contact each of the three credit bureaus individually to place a freeze, and specific documentation is required for minors.