Squeaky clean record is best

You may have trouble getting credit cards, loans, mortgages, mobile phone contracts and even a job.

Virtually every adult in New Zealand has a credit record and most have no idea what information is held about them.

For an employer or lender to see your credit record, you need to agree in writing. But, sometimes, this detail is hidden in the small print of lenders' agreements.

Recruiters tend to be more up front. Some employment agencies routinely credit check every candidate. Others such as Robert Walters do it only if employers ask for it.

That means they can see details of any defaults or bankruptcies you have had. If you're going for a financial job, one default could mean the difference between getting the interview or not.

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