How Background Checks Are Done?

Conducting background checks is a systematic process, crucial for organizations to ensure they make informed hiring decisions. Understanding this process can help businesses comprehend the depth, duration, and legal considerations involved.

Step 1: Request Initiation

The process begins when a client requests a background check. This can be done through a client interface or directly with the background screening provider.

Step 2: Applicant Data Submission

Applicants are often involved in the process by submitting their information through an electronic Applicant Management Center (eAMC). This ensures accuracy and efficiency.

Step 3: Order Processing and Instant Searches

Once the applicant’s information is submitted, the background check is assigned an order number and processing begins. Instant searches, such as identity verifications, are typically automated.

Step 4: Processor Review

The submitted order and results from instant searches are reviewed by a processor for accuracy and completeness.

Step 5: Depth of Check and Jurisdiction Consideration

The depth of the background check (e.g., 10-year, 7-year, 3-year, or 1-year criminal history) influences the Turn Around Time (TAT). The applicant’s history in various locations, including international ones, affects the duration.
Court capabilities play a significant role. Courts with direct electronic access provide quicker results compared to manual courts, where files need to be physically pulled and searched.

Step 6: Nationwide Database Limitations

Contrary to popular belief, there is no comprehensive “Nationwide” criminal background check system. Instead, over 3800 criminal jurisdictions, along with numerous agencies, maintain separate records, leading to potentially incomplete or outdated information in private databases.

Step 7: Compliance with FCRA and State Laws

Any criminal records found in databases must be verified at the originating source, typically the local county court, to comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and state laws.

Step 8: Report Retention

While the FCRA does not mandate a specific retention period for background check reports, it’s advisable for employers to retain these reports for a significant period. This is due to potential legal actions that can arise from background check violations or related employee incidents.

Conclusion:

Background checks are a multi-step process involving various levels of verification and research. The timeline can vary, but the goal is always to provide accurate, comprehensive, and legally compliant information to the client. By understanding these steps, clients can better appreciate the thoroughness and necessity of background checks in today’s professional environment.

By Zia Rhodes|2024-03-12T17:02:36-04:00February 21st, 2024|HOW|Comments Off

About the Author: Zia Rhodes

Zia Rodes is a dedicated Customer Success Manager at EDIFY Background Screening, where she plays a crucial role in ensuring client satisfaction across various screening services including employer background checks, tenant screenings, and comprehensive drug tests. With her deep expertise in conducting criminal background checks, evaluating eviction and credit histories, and ensuring accurate drug test results, Zia brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that aligns perfectly with Edify's commitment to service excellence and integrity. At EDIFY, Zia is renowned for her meticulous attention to detail and her ability to tailor solutions that meet the unique needs of each client, from small businesses to large corporations. Her approach is always grounded in the company’s core values of transparency, ethics, excellence, and compassion. She understands that every interaction is an opportunity to reinforce trust and reliability, ensuring that clients not only receive thorough background checks but also experience a process that is as smooth and transparent as possible. Zia’s extensive understanding of background screening processes, from criminal background histories to detailed checks of credit and eviction records, makes her an invaluable resource for clients needing diverse background check solutions. Her dedication to exceeding client expectations helps EDIFY stand out as a leader in comprehensive and trustworthy background screening services.