Credit Authorizers, Checkers, and Clerks Salary Guide 2025: $50,080 Median, -6% Growth
The median annual salary for Credit Authorizers, Checkers, and Clerks hit $50,080 in 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to roughly $24 an hour, with the middle half earning between about $37,500 and $63,000. The field is small — just over 12,000 workers nationwide — and shrinking, with a projected 6.2% decline over the next decade.
How much Credit Authorizers, Checkers, and Clerks earn
Pay ranges widely. The 10th percentile earns $30,260 or less, while the 90th percentile pulls in $72,700 or more. Mean annual wage is $51,420. Experience, location, and industry matter: those in credit intermediation or management of companies tend to earn above the median.
Top earners often work in securities, commodity contracts, or depository credit intermediation. Entry-level roles in retail or general offices pay near the bottom of the range.
- Median: $50,080 per year ($24.08/hour)
- 10th percentile: $30,260
- 90th percentile: $72,700
- Mean: $51,420
Pay by state
Where you work dramatically affects your paycheck. Texas leads the nation with an average salary of $62,930, followed by Minnesota ($61,000), Washington ($59,840), New Jersey ($59,400), and Illinois ($58,880). These states host major financial hubs or have high demand for credit evaluation.
On the low end, Georgia averages just $30,490, Alabama $35,990, and Louisiana $37,440. Rural areas and regions with weaker banking sectors tend to pay less.
- Highest-paying: Texas ($62,930), Minnesota ($61,000), Washington ($59,840), New Jersey ($59,400), Illinois ($58,880)
- Lowest-paying: Louisiana ($37,440), Alabama ($35,990), Georgia ($30,490)
How to become Credit Authorizers, Checkers, and Clerk
Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent, but many prefer some college or an associate degree in finance, accounting, or business. On-the-job training is common, lasting a few weeks to a few months. Key skills include attention to detail, basic math, and familiarity with credit scoring software.
Certification isn't mandatory, but the National Association of Credit Management offers the Credit Business Associate (CBA) credential, which can boost your resume. Advancement often leads to senior credit analyst or loan officer roles.
- Get a high school diploma or GED; an associate degree helps.
- Learn credit scoring, data entry, and customer service basics.
- Apply for entry-level positions at banks, credit unions, or finance companies.
- Consider voluntary certification (e.g., CBA from NACM) for better pay.
- Gain experience; promotion paths include senior checker or credit manager.
Job outlook
Employment is projected to shrink by 6.2% from 2024 to 2034, far worse than the average occupation. Automation and online credit approvals reduce demand for manual checks. Still, about 1,000 openings arise each year, mostly from workers leaving the field. Best prospects are in states with growing financial sectors like Texas and Florida.
Frequently asked questions
What does a Credit Authorizer, Checker, or Clerk do?
They review credit applications, verify financial information, and decide or recommend whether to grant credit. Duties include checking credit reports, calculating income ratios, and contacting references.
Do you need a degree to become a Credit Authorizer, Checker, or Clerk?
Typically only a high school diploma is required, though an associate or bachelor's degree in business or finance can improve job prospects and starting salary.
Is Credit Authorizer, Checker, or Clerk a good career?
It offers stable median pay above the national average, but the field is declining. Good for those seeking entry-level office work in finance, but long-term outlook is negative.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Credit Authorizers, Checkers, and Clerks data.