Under federal law youth 14 and older have the right to receive a free copy of their consumer credit report annually until discharged from foster care or extended foster care from one of the three credit reporting agencies (CRA) each year until the youth is discharged from care. Youth are to have their credit report explained in an age-appropriate manner with inconsistencies resolved.
Credit Reporting Agencies:
- Equifax
- Experian
- TransUnion
Youth Ages 14-17
DCS utilizes an electronic batch reporting process for youth 14-17, who are in out-of-home care. Reports are processed monthly, which captures all youth during their birthday month and the month of the youths’ initial removal. The batch reporting process ensure credit report are conducted annually. Youth will receive assistance in interpreting and resolving inaccuracies in their credit report by their case manager.
Youth Ages 18-21
Youth ages 18-21 who are in out-of-home placement or an independent living placement will receive a credit report from each of the three CRA annually until the youth is discharged from care. The youth will receive assistance in obtaining, interpreting and resolving any inaccuracies from the Older Youth Service Provider.
Credit Reporting Resources
- Helping youth start and maintain good credit
- Helping youth in foster care to start and maintain good credit
- How credit works in 60 seconds
- Implementing the credit check mandate infographic
- Credit reporting flyer
For questions about DCS credit reporting process please email the Credit Check Questions mailbox.