I am filling for bankruptcy because of this huge hospital bill that I can not pay. Will the bankruptcy be an issue during my background investigation for the police?
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Can A Bankruptcy Affect Me During My Background Investigation In Law Enforcement?
4 Responses to Can A Bankruptcy Affect Me During My Background Investigation In Law Enforcement?
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“Princess Of God”? The Bankruptcy may not hurt your chances as much as the “Vanity” (excuse me if the is just the Biblical definition of your Name) Answer, a credit check is a standard part of a “Background Check”. Depending on “the Department” and the circumstances of your bankruptcy it may not be a factor. Departments that are “not short” of applicants may use this as a “early discriminator” during evaluation so you may not get an “oral interview” and therefore a chance to explain in person.
Other departments, usually smaller and with lower pay scales may not be as discriminating when it comes to credit. I know some people that had cars repossessed, credit card debt, prior garnishments, etc that still made it on with a department. Also, with sheriff’s departments, one can often get their “foot in the door” by applying for and becoming a “Jailer” or “Detention Officer’, lower pay and in some case less demanding hiring requirements (except criminal of course). Do a excellent job, do your time in the jail, and you may get a shot at the full academy and position as a full or Road Deputy!
It absolutely can be. My husband was told by one department that bad credit is seen as a red flag on someone and they usually consider that person to be irresponsible. It’s why we worked so hard to keep our credit on the right track the last few years (even though it’s been REALLY hard).
YES. Your personal finances are a huge part of a police background check. The idea is, probably correctly, that if you are too far in debt you would be more likely tempted to accept bribes or steal money.
It always is. If it really is just a hospital bill, it might not hurt as much as if you had a wallet full of unpaid credit cards.