Completing a comprehensive background check or applying for a sensitive professional position may require a long address history.

Several methods for locating your previous addresses exist, including reviewing public records and requesting financial documents. You can contact each of the major credit bureaus, request or locate copies of your tax returns or contact a data management company.

Request your credit reports. Credit reporting agencies keep your addresses on file. Contact each of the three major bureaus -- Callcredit, Equifax and Experian -- and request your credit file.

If you submit a tax return, your past returns will include your address. If you submit online, you can find your past returns on the HMRC website. Other tax paperwork, such as notices of your tax codes, will also contain your address.

Complete a personal background check. Credit agencies also conduct these. Alternatively, consider a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

Hire a data management company. Many companies provide background check services for a fee. Typically, they provide a 25- to 30-year address history.

Tip

Once you compile your address history, keep a backup master file with your information.