If you're a parent, you might want to know how to get your minor child's credit report. There are several options available to you, including contacting the credit bureaus to ask for a copy of your child's report. These bureaus are Equifax, TransUnion, Experian.
TransUnion
Check your child's TransUnion credit report if he or she is younger than 18. You can do this by asking for a copy or the Social Security card and birth certificate. The process for recovering identity theft is similar to one that an adult goes through. It can take years to discover identity theft in children.
TransUnion credit reports for minors can be requested online or by post. To do this, you must provide identifying information and submit a form with your name and address. There are different requirements for each bureau, but the procedure is easy. TransUnion can help you once you have completed the application.
You should immediately freeze any credit bureau file that your child has. This will help protect the child's credit and prevent others from using it. TransUnion must be notified in writing to request the freezing of a child's account.
Equifax
Equifax will check your credit file if your child is younger than 18 years. Equifax searches its credit database to find instances where minors have used their social security numbers. Equifax will create new credit files in the minor's names and lock them to prevent unauthorized access if it discovers such a record. You will also be notified if your file has been accessed.
You can also place a security freeze on your child's credit report, which will prevent anyone from accessing it without permission. It is free and can help protect your child against identity thieves. To place a security freeze on your child' credit report, simply fill out the Equifax Minor Freeze Request Form. TransUnion and Experian offer minor freeze requests forms.
Experian
You can request an Experian credit file for minors if you are a parent of a child under 18 years old. This report will provide information about the credit accounts of your child and any payments they have made. It may also include information about fraud and identity theft. You should verify the accuracy of the report. If you discover any errors, you have the right of appeal.
You can request your child's credit report by completing an online form. It is important to include your child's full names, date of birth, current address, and past addresses. You might also include information about your employer or teacher. These details will allow you to identify any red flags, such as an employer or teacher.
Lenders may not be able to access a child's credit file. However, some banks and credit card companies do not require a minor to be at least 18 years old to receive a credit report. If you are a parent and want to keep your child's credit safe, you can freeze their credit report in many states.