What is meant by background check?
Background screens (or checks) are a way for employers to verify information about an applicant and/or current employee, getting a comprehensive understanding of who they are to ensure they make a safe hire. For many employers, a background screen is usually conducted as a simple pre-employment process, but depending on the industry and position they can become quite complex. Background screens can typically include employment/education verification, driving records, credit reports, or even social media in some cases. When combining products to create a custom program, employers can better maintain compliance and meet industry standards.
What is included in a background check?
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.
What shows up on a background screen?
Background screenings can vary depending on certain positions, industry standards, and state laws. Background products can include,
• Criminal History Checks (Federal, State, and County)
• Civil Searches (Federal and County)
• SSN Validity Checks
• Employment Verifications
• Education Verifications
• I-9 and E-Verify
• State Driving Records
• Professional Licenses and Credentials
• Credit Reports
• Adverse Action Notices
• Personal Reference Verifications
• Government Sanctions Lists
• Sex Offender Searches
• DOT Testing History
• Criminal Investigative Services
Why is the candidate's consent required to run a background check?
According to the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) § 604 – 15 U.S.C. § 1681b, employers are required to provide applicants with a separate written disclosure, which advises that a consumer report may be obtained for employment purposes. The document must consist solely of the disclosure as a stand-alone document. Additionally, the employer also must obtain the applicant’s written consent to order the background check.