How to Get a Credit Report for a Minor Child

Credit reports for minors typically do not exist except in cases of identity theft. Credit bureaus do not deliberately keep records on minor children. If you suspect that your child may be a victim of identity theft, it is possible to obtain credit reports on his behalf to rectify the situation.

Instructions

1

Write a letter to each of the three credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. You may write one letter and send it to all three to save yourself time. Explain that you are concerned that your child may be a victim of identity theft; request that an investigation be performed to determine if a credit report exists under your child's name.

Include copies of your driver's license, proof of address such as a bank statement or utility bill and copies of your child's birth certificate and social security card. Provide a list of any other addresses you've lived at for the past two years; make sure to include the child's full name in the letter. Do not under any circumstances send any original documentation; only send photocopies.

2

Mail each letter via certified mail, return receipt requested. This is important because you are mailing very personal identifying information and you need proof of its delivery. Credit bureau addresses are as follows:

Equifax
P.O. Box 740256
Atlanta, Georgia 30374

Experian
P.O. Box 9554
Allen, Texas 75013

TransUnion
P.O. Box 6790
Fullerton, CA 92834

3

Within 30 days you should receive a response from each of the credit bureaus. When no proof is found of identity theft, no credit report will exist for your child. If the investigation proves that your child is a victim of identity theft, the credit bureau will mail you a copy of the credit report. Contact your local police department to file a report in these cases.