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.

DISA is a member of the National Association of Professional Background Screeners (NAPBS) and can help ensure that your hiring practices are consistent and compliant with your industry needs. DISA provides a comprehensive line of background check services, which are fully automated and can easily be combined with a drug and alcohol testing program or other service offerings.

Depending on the scope of the search allowable by law or requested by an employer, records of convictions of a felony or misdemeanor are usually reported on a background check. Non-convictions may be reported in some cases depending on the date of the charge or whether a case has been dismissed. Federal and state law will determine how far back criminal records can be reported.

A felony is typically defined as a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment of not less than one year or by the death penalty. Felonies may include crimes such as arson, assault, battery, fraud, homicide, kidnapping, rape, robbery, sex crimes, and terrorism.

Misdemeanors are often less serious crimes and are generally punishable by less than 12 months in jail. Community service, probation, fines, and imprisonment for less than a year are commonly issued punishments for misdemeanors. Obviously, each state may vary as to what is classified as a misdemeanor or felony.

DISA’s Client Services department team can answer most questions you may have. Please call them at 281-673-2450. In addition, your contractor employer should be able to provide information about specific owner requirements.