Answer

Are credit reports included in a background check?

A credit report is sourced at one of the three major credit bureaus. A credit report can reveal if an applicant has lived at a particular address or addresses for a length of time and can be an indicator of how responsibly he/she has handled personal financial affairs. In some states, this product can only be used for certain positions, such as fiduciary or executive management positions, or for certain regulated employers. Note, no credit score is provided on the credit report for employment purposes. State and local laws restrict when a credit report can be obtained for employment purposes.

The background check company will contact verified previous employers to confirm dates of employment, job title, and reason for leaving. Education verifications generally confirm the year of graduation, major, degree earned, and attendance dates.

Employers can look for a variety of things in a background check including but not limited to education/employment verification, SSN/i9 checks, or prior federal, state, or county convictions. Although employers can customize their background check policies, depending on the industry or state laws, they have to abide by certain practices to maintain compliance.

Background checks often include a criminal history search at a minimum. However, depending upon the nature of the job, for persons in more sensitive, high-level positions or those dealing with vulnerable populations, it may also include investigation of credit reports, sanctions checks, sex offender checks, and/or driving history. Background checks also may include verification of previous employment, education, professional licenses, and personal or professional references.