credit checks are hurting people who need to work the most. 47% of employers say they conduct credit checks. it is legal if the employer gets permission from the applicant. the survey found 1 in 7 people with poor credit have been denied work because of their credit history. poor credit is a fico score below 620. we conclude that employment credit checks obstruct access to employment often for the very job applicants who need the work most, this according to demos. the unemployment get squeezed because many times their credit score gets hit when looking for work. you're out of work, you're looking for a job, your credit history is getting worse because you're looking for a job. some respondents also blame errors for that poor rating. check your credit history. you're entitled to a free credit report every year.