[I]n most social settings, it is inappropriate to ask questions about a person’s finances, religion, ethnic background, political preference, HIV/AIDS status, or sexual orientation. But when it comes to dating, everything especially the state of their finances and health is critical to your future. Even if you do not want to get serious with your date, you could end up becoming physically and emotionally committed despite your best efforts. Biology and emotions can take over even the most determined people. As a result, there are a number of reasons why asking your partner for their credit score isn’t as crazy as it sounds.
While you do not necessarily need to get key pieces of information such as a credit score the second you meet someone, you should broach the subject before going on many dates or becoming physically involved. A good way to approach the matter is to discuss your own credit rating as well as views on borrowing and saving. The leading cause of relationship break-ups is finances, so isn’t it better to learn the truth now rather than later?
Some people believe it is shallow to worry about any romantic partner’s credit score. But like it or not, credit ratings are an integral part of everyday life. As time passes, credit scoring has become even more important. People with challenged credit have a much greater risk of being irresponsible in multiple areas of their lives, including driving and sexual behavior. Even if a poor credit rating resulted from an unfortunate situation such as an unexpected job loss, businesses do not care why someone has a bad credit score. They simply deny basic services such as rental housing or charge hefty fees and deposits for electricity or auto loans.
A bad credit rating does not have to become a deal breaker, but it should cause you to take a closer look at other aspects of your partner’s life. If his credit score is way below 600, chances are that the resulting financial strain will doom your relationship in the end. At least talk openly with trusted loved ones and financial advisors before getting further committed to someone with a bad credit history.
