New York Prohibits Employers’ Use of Credit Histories

Beginning April 18, 2026, employers of all sizes will be prohibited from requesting or

using an applicant’s or employee’s consumer credit history or discriminating against

them based on that history. Consumer credit history is the applicant’s or

employee’s credit information or payment history as reflected in their credit report,

credit score, or in details the employer gets directly from the individual about their

credit accounts, bankruptcies, judgments, or liens.

There are some exceptions, such as when the employer is required by law to

consider credit history or the position requires security clearance. The law does

not include a blanket exception for employees who handle customer or employer

funds.