Just tried to discuss my own Tax Credit claim and was asked if I would consent to my experian credit file being accessed to get additional information to verify my identity I was then asked what was the duration of my longest credit agreement !! Has anybody else experienced this and would this search be recorded on my credit profile

I cannot answer your question re search being recorded on your TCO file - but probably would. I have not heard of this request before, but then again I dont deal with many TC cases.

What was the reason they needed to check your credit history, is this not going beyond what is reasonable to ascertain your identity for TC purposes - I would say so, they hold enough details about you for your claim without going this far. Also is this not contrary to their cutsomer charter ?

What would have happended if you declined consent ?

These are the kind of details that would be held on the National ID cards and data bank.

This looks like another manifestation of the (in my view) extreme and idiotic "security" questions TCO ask claimants when they phone.

I have listened to recordings of claimants in tears on the phone because they were asked obscure questions which no one living a normal life would be able to remember the answer to - e.g. what is your employer's tax reference!

Thu 03-Dec-09 07:51 PM by clairehodgson

since hmrc & dwp have power to ask anyone to divulge any info about anyone ....

and no, i wouldn't give them permission to look

bizarre.

edited to add... i think this is the sort of thing one's mp should know about, to add to his/her ever expanding file...

I think you are a pathfinder in a new HMRC system known under the snappy title of IDAS.

This is a new Identification and Verification arrangement which was sprung upon us at the last Tax Credit Consultation Group meeting (or the very late and too late to change Consultation Group meeting).

In theory, this might improve the identification process and move HMRC into the sort of position that people have with online banking.

As part of the verification process HMRC have access, with your permission, to other information that they think they can rely on i.e. a credit rating. Then with this additional verification HMRC will set up a PIN which will be used for future calls.

We identified a range of weaknesses in this process for certain groups of customers, although, on balance, if it can be explained well and operated securely then we felt it might be to most people's advantage.

It sounds as if the first part of the proviso (i.e. explanation) has failed.

Hope this helps.

Its intrusion a step to far by a state that cannot be trusted with the right information never mind HRMC - its a kin to using a microscope to check ID. Next the DWP will be using the same.

Only relevent information need be given.
What happens if these details are refused ? do the TCO refuse to deal with your query over the phone?

Functioncreep!

I've encountered several clients recently who have failed the security checks when they've rung TCO. The employer's tax ref seems to be quite a common question. Mind you, the Pension Service is getting nearly as bad.

devious plot to make us all accept id cards....there'll be numbers all over that to quote .. and then they'll think of something else...