How do I order a credit report for my child?

There are some cases that appear to be identity theft but are not. Receiving a pre-approved credit card offer in your child's name might be upsetting. However, it might only be an innocent marketing tool sent by an affiliate of your bank because you opened a collage fund or savings account for your child. We recommend that you opt out of all marketing lists with the bank when you open an account. A check of the credit reports will help you sort this out.

We and the three credit reporting agencies do not recommend that you automatically check your child's credit report annually, unless you have an indication of a problem. To just order reports unnecessarily actually confuses the computerized systems of the credit reporting agencies and opens a door to thieves because it could establish a credit report.

A child should not have a report unless someone has started to apply for credit using that child's social security number.

All correspondence should be sent certified, return receipt mail. This correspondence should include:

A cover letter including the full name of the child, the child's date of birth and previous addresses for the last five years.
A copy of the child's birth certificate
A copy of the parent's ID card, such as a driver's license or state/ military issued photo id card.
A copy of the child's SSN
If the requestor is a guardian, but not a parent, he/ she should state that and additionally include any documentation that would legally appoint them as the guardian.

If you do not get a response from the credit reporting agencies within 30 days after getting your return receipt postcard, please file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission.

Related Links:

Fact Sheet 120A  This includes the credit reporting agencies addresses to write to.

Fact Sheet 120  Child Identity Theft

Fact Sheet 120B  Parent’s Warning Signs- Child IDT

Letter Form 120  Request a Child's Credit Report