Christina, to answer your question, it depends. The whole premise of checking people's credit that have been out of work didn't make sense to me. You know a person that has been unemployed for a while will probably have late payments, depending on their savings. I was told they are more looking for bankruptcy, and more serious issues. A person can tell by looking at financials whether you have had recent issues, or if you have been a long term financial abuser. I would address the issue honestly if it comes up. Unless you are applying at a financial institution, it shouldn't be a deal breaker. Good Luck...