Credit Problems

[dustinward03]

I am sorry if this issue has already been addressed, but I am new to the forum and also do not have much time to spend browsing. I would like very much to become a police officer, however my credit is not good. How big of problem will this be for me to become a police officer. I am currently working on my Criminal Justice Degree.

Any insight appreciated.

Dustin

[Kimble]

I am sorry if this issue has already been addressed, but I am new to the forum and also do not have much time to spend browsing. I would like very much to become a police officer, however my credit is not good. How big of problem will this be for me to become a police officer. I am currently working on my Criminal Justice Degree.

Any insight appreciated.

Dustin

Basically, the bigger your credit problems are, the bigger the problem it will be for you to become a LEO. Credit checks are a part of the application process for that reason.

[Valor55]

If you are piled under massive debt or recently filed bankruptcy it will be a problem until you get things under control again. Medical problems and divorces that result in debt (i.e. debt you can't help) looks better than buying a new car, a boat, and a collection of ATV's that you can't afford on your salary.

[dustinward03]

I am 21 and have college, house, and a car to pay for. The company I used to work for moved my position so I lost my job. Have been struggling to keep the bills paid.

[wilkabilly4]

I think under those circumstances you will be fine. Just explain it to the background investigator when you get to that point. I personally think the credit thing is overrated and hopefully they will look at the whole picture when making a decision. Best of luck to you.

[H.R. Cufnstuf]

Focus on finding solutions to your problems vice hoping to minimize the seriousness.

Have you considered the military? Your G.I. Bill will pay up to $36,000 and tuition assistance will pay something to the tune of an additional $4000 per year while you're enlisted.

Also, the military will pay for CLEP examinations and job experience credits (forget the term offhand). With CLEP you simply take an exam to exempt the class. With job experience as a MA in paygrade E-4, for example, something to the effect of 20-some credits are granted at many colleges in classes like Physical Fitness, Firearms, Deadly Force, and so on.

Trying to pay for college by yourself may not be the best solution for you at the moment. If you're already running into credit problems you'll also want a steady job that will allow you to pay down your debt and put time between your problems and prospective application into law enforcement.

[IronFist74]

What is the average credit score you are supposed to have to be accepted as a LEO?