How to Monitor Your Spouse's Credit Score

You already know that monitoring your credit score is an important way to shield yourself from identity theft. However, given the fast pace of everyday life, it can be hard to remember to check your credit regularly.

If you want to set your family up for solid credit in the future, it can help to look out for one another. In this article, we'll take a look at how to monitor spouse credit scores.

How to monitor spouse credit scores

First and foremost, it's important to note that you can't legally monitor your spouse's credit score without their permission.

For many couples, sharing credit reports can be a great way to establish financial goals together.

Is your credit score connected to your spouse's credit score?

Many people believe that when they get married, they share a credit file with their spouse. This is incorrect. Even when you're married, you'll each have a separate file. If you have any joint accounts, they'll appear on both of your credit reports. 

What to do if you find errors in your spouse's credit report

You and your spouse should regularly review your credit reports for any unusual activity. To increase your likelihood of getting the error removed, you should also file a dispute with the three credit bureaus, Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.

If you have reason to believe that the errors are the result of identity theft, also take these steps:

• File a report with the Federal Trade Commission at IdentityTheft.gov
• Place a fraud alert
• Freeze your credit

Conclusion

When you know how to monitor spouse credit scores as well as your own, you'll be better equipped to reach your mutual financial goals. Kikoff can help.

When you create an account, you'll gain access to credit monitoring across all three credit bureaus. You can check your score anytime, and you'll also receive alerts if there are any significant changes.

Are you and your spouse on a journey to improve your credit? If so, get started with Kikoff today.