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"JOB HUNTER SHAFTED BY NASTY CREDIT HISTORY!"

Dear Kathryn:

I have been heavily interviewing and am getting the shaft all because of my credit rating!

On job applications, they're always asking permission to check my credit history. By now you've guessed my credit history is the pits and as soon as that's uncovered, poof goes any hope of an offer. In addition, I've had companies check my credit when I hadn't given permission for them to do so!

First, how should I handle this as nine out of ten companies want to check my credit?

In addition, isn't it illegal for an employer to get my credit history without my explicit authorization of them doing so?

I'm being stonewalled all because of some mistakes a few years ago!

ANN P., Hamden, CT.

Dear Ann:

You don't indicate whether there's been any improvement in your payment/credit history within the last year. That could potentially help your case.

When you sign off authorizing an employer to check your credit, include a prepared statement indicating you'd like to provide some additional information as to your credit history. Prepare an explanation as to why your credit went awry and what steps you've taken to improve it. Your confronting your credit problem up front will show forthrightness in addition to the fact you've taken corrective measures to get your credit in better condition.

As to employers obtaining your credit history without your written permission, that's clearly prohibited. The Fair Credit Reporting Act's recent amendment clearly states they need to have your written authorization.

For more details about your credit history go to www.fairisaac.com. This is the web site of the company that tabulates your credit report scores. This site provides some terrific consumer credit advice. Good luck.

Dear Kathryn:

I've been the epitome of the tried and true employee and all it's brought me is a demotion.

I have worked here for eight years and have taken only two sick days during all this time. In the last two years when I posted for a higher level position, I was turned down in favor of shorter-term employees!

Now that the company's reorganized, I was told yesterday my duties were changing and my pay grade was being lowered. Is this how an employer rewards a loyal employee? I'm wondering if this is just the prelude to them announcing its curtains for me.

SANDY P., New Britain, CT

Dear Sandy:

You've keyed in on one very important factor: analyzing whether or not you're being positioned to be booted. However, you're ignoring another very critical issue. What exactly is it that your employer recognizes as a qualifying positive contribution that equal gaining a promotion, and at the very least, maintaining your grade level?

The question you need to approach your boss with is exactly what you'd have to have done to earn the promotion-and what can you do now to improve your status in the company's eyes?

How can you climb back up the ladder to your former grade level? If the feedback you get is that you don't have the ability to cut it in a higher level position, no matter what your efforts, it's time to start looking. It will be obvious than that no matter how hard you try, your employer's not going to recognize nor appreciate your efforts and you need to find someone who will.

Important fact number two is that while good attendance is expected and long tenure is appreciated, these items alone are not reason for promotions. Talent and proven/potential abilities are the components that garner the promotions.

Dear Kathryn:

I worked for my employer for six years and now want the profit sharing that is due me. How can I make sure I get my money? Can I request it immediately? I really need the money.

SUE P., Milford, CT

DearSue

The profit sharing plan's terms dictate when the funds are paid out. Write your employer and ask for a copy of the plan's description. The description alone should provide details as to when the funds are paid out.