How to Do a Background Check: A Comprehensive Guide
Doing a background check might seem daunting, but it's a straightforward process once you understand the options and legalities. This guide will walk you through the different types of background checks, where to find them, and what information you can expect to find. Whether you're a potential employer, a landlord, or simply curious about someone's past, this information will be invaluable.
Types of Background Checks
There are several types of background checks, each revealing different levels of information:
1. Basic Background Checks:
These are typically the quickest and cheapest option. They usually include:
- Name verification: Confirming the individual's legal name and aliases.
- Address history: Identifying previous addresses.
- Criminal record check: Searching for any felony or misdemeanor convictions in a specific jurisdiction (county, state, etc.). This often excludes minor offenses or those expunged from records.
Where to find them: Many online services offer basic background checks, but it's crucial to choose a reputable provider to ensure data accuracy and privacy.
2. Enhanced Background Checks:
These delve deeper than basic checks, adding more comprehensive information:
- Everything in a basic check: Name verification, address history, and criminal record check.
- Expanded criminal record check: Includes more jurisdictions and potentially minor offenses.
- Civil records: Searches for bankruptcies, judgments, and liens.
- Motor vehicle records (MVR): Reveals driving history, including accidents and violations.
Where to find them: Professional background check companies specialize in providing enhanced reports. Remember to always verify the legitimacy of any company before providing personal information.
3. Comprehensive Background Checks:
These are the most thorough and often used for sensitive positions or situations:
- All of the above: Basic and enhanced check information.
- Professional licenses and certifications: Verification of professional qualifications.
- Employment history verification: Contacting previous employers to verify work experience.
- Education verification: Confirming educational degrees and certifications.
- Credit report: Provides insights into an individual's financial history (requires explicit consent).
Where to find them: Only specialized firms and agencies can provide these comprehensive reports, often requiring specific legal authorization or consent from the subject.
Legalities and Considerations
Before conducting a background check, understand the legal implications:
- Consent: In most cases, you need the individual's consent to perform a background check, especially if it involves sensitive information like credit reports. Failure to obtain consent can lead to legal consequences.
- Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA): This act governs the use of consumer reports, including background checks. It dictates how the information is collected, used, and disclosed. Non-compliance can result in hefty fines.
- State and local laws: Different states have varying regulations on background checks, so it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the relevant laws in your area.
Choosing a Background Check Service
Selecting a reputable service is critical for accuracy and legal compliance. Consider these factors:
- Reputation: Check reviews and online feedback.
- Accuracy: A provider's accuracy is paramount to avoid false information.
- Compliance: Ensure they adhere to FCRA and other relevant regulations.
- Data security: Confirm they have robust data protection measures in place.
Interpreting Background Check Results
Background check results are valuable but should be interpreted carefully. Remember that:
- Information is not necessarily definitive: Past events don't always predict future behavior.
- Context is crucial: Consider the age of the information and the circumstances surrounding any incidents.
- Consult legal counsel: For complex interpretations or legal implications, seek advice from a qualified professional.
This guide offers a starting point for understanding background checks. Remember to always prioritize legality and ethical considerations throughout the process. By understanding the different types, legalities, and providers, you can navigate this process effectively and responsibly.
