Background Check 101: Everything You Should Know
A background check is a comprehensive method of collecting an individual’s records and compiling the details into an easy-to-read report. The details within a background check may vary according to the type of screening requested; however, several elements are consistent across the various types of reports. A background report will most commonly include copies of an individual’s personal information, employment history, credit report, criminal records, and civil documents.
A few reports may include employment references, education verification, social media records, motor vehicle records checks, and drug testing. Before running a background check, always confirm the contents included in the screening, as these elements will vary according to the issuing company.
Personal Identification Background Check
The personal identification background screening will review all personal information on the file. All referencing will include name verification, maiden or previous names, alias verification, address history, SSN confirmation, and contact information on file.
Criminal History Background Check
The criminal history background check will compile all records and charges attached to an individual’s name. This screening will search national, state, federal, and county criminal databases to report any felony and misdemeanor criminal convictions or pending charges. Each screening will only include a small portion of the results, depending on the agency reviewed. For example, state databases will only have the selected state’s criminal court system.
The recorded history of criminal activity will vary according to the state requesting records. As federal laws don’t exist on reporting mandates, it is individual discretion for the reporting period. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) holds limitations on adverse information, although this doesn’t include criminal history. On average, most criminal background checks will consist of seven years within the report.
Will Dismissed Cases Show on the Background Check?
Dismissed cases will often appear under the background check, as they are classified as criminal records. Cases ending in dismissal or not-guilty verdicts will still appear under the screening report.
Will Sealed or Expunged Records Appear on the Background Check?
Any candidate who successfully petitions the court to expunge a record will no longer have the documents appear on the background check report. Any records relating to this offense will disappear, wiping the account.
Will Arrests Appear on the Background Check?
Arrests don’t classify as an admission of guilt, meaning the records hold minimal weight in any screening process. Reported information will vary according to the state, as several areas have specific reporting mandates. To determine whether your state allows the reporting of arrest records, look through individual conditions.
Will Traffic Records Appear on the Background Check?
Criminal background checks don’t typically include traffic tickets within the criminal section of the screening. A few driving charges fall under the criminal classification, including DUI or reckless driving charges. These charges land under the criminal history check and motor vehicle screening on the report.
Credit Report Background Check
A credit report will include a complete profile of an individual’s financial health. This background screening portion will include all identifying information like full name and mailing address, current credit accounts, and available credit. Additionally, this report will note the file’s previous payment history and any bankruptcies or liens.
Civil History Background Check
A civil history background check will scan through databases for any previous or current court cases. These documents include any wrongdoing of another individual, case records from civil court proceedings, and all upper and lower-level courts.
Motor Vehicle History Background Check
Anyone with a driver’s license will hold a recorded driving record. These records will vary according to the individual but will include identifying details of the driver, copy of license number, license classifications and tiers, and current status. The motor vehicle history will include any violations attached to the individual’s record.
Education History Background Check
The education history background screening will compile a comprehensive list of an individual’s qualifications, credentials, and educational history. Education verification will look for the highest level of employment completed, including any degrees finished, school attended, and graduation date.
Employment Verification Background Check
This portion of the background check will assess the validity of someone’s work history against the details within their resume. The employment verification process will review an individual’s employment history, including the title, duration of employment, and position within the company.
What is an Employment Reference Check?
During the background screening, the employment reference check will use professional and personal contacts to verify someone’s work ethic. This process will confirm an individual’s skills, experiences, education, and background. Most reference questions relate to work ethic or generalized skills within the workplace.
Social Media Background Check
The social media screening will use all personal information in the background report to verify any online account information. These details will include social media accounts (common and less popular domains), dating profiles, or other account creation through personal details. If an individual holds an online account, any relevant information (pictures, status updates, and group discussions) is included in the report.
Pre-Employment Drug Testing Checks
Occasionally, an employer will require all prospective employees to submit a drug screening before employment commences. Drug testing options vary but may include urine or blood testing. Drug screening options include 4-panel, 5-panel, 8-panel + MQL, and 10-panel testing.
Fingerprint Background Checks
A fingerprint background check is reserved for individuals working within the federal government or companies that work for them. The background check will include FBI-level screening, uncovering all interactions with law enforcement that house criminal data. The screening will include arrests, convictions, parking tickets, or traffic violations attached to the prints on file.
Any fingerprint background screening will run through the FBI’s Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System (IAFIS) or the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Anyone Order a Background Check?
Yes. Anyone may request a background check, although the intended purpose is the most critical component. Users should never use a background report for ill intent, including stalking or harassing another person. If people require a background screening for employment, there are specific terms they must follow before requesting.
Will an Employer See My Financial Account Numbers?
The credit history will include a complete list of an individual’s financial accounts. For security reasons, this report will not have complete account or card numbers. Details will include the financial institution, balance, limits, and delinquencies.
Can Someone See How Much I Make?
No. A background check will not include payment or salary information in the report. These details are confidential between an employee and the employer. Likewise, the employment verification will not have any salary or hourly wages in the screening process.
Will Misdemeanors Appear on a Background Check?
Yes. A criminal background check will include all misdemeanor convictions, charges, and pending cases. A misdemeanor is often a less severe offense, including charges without jail time. Instead, these charges hold fines, community service, or probation.
Conclusion
The background check offers a comprehensive report on an individual, including various aspects of their life. Several areas remain common for all reporting companies, which include criminal history, credit report, personal verification, and civil documents. Before ordering, always confirm the included content with the background check company.