A background check is a search of public and private records to obtain information about someone. The purpose of the check varies but may include employment screening, volunteer work, or pre-employment screenings. Government agencies or private companies can conduct these checks.
A background check is an important step in the hiring process. But can be used for numerous other reasons such as renting property. It can help you identify potential candidates and weed out those with a history of criminal activity or bad credit. Keep reading to learn more about what a background check entails.
How are background checks performed?
When an individual applies for a job, the potential employer will likely conduct a background check on them. There are many different types of background screenings that can be performed, but the most common is a criminal background check. This type of check will reveal any arrests or convictions that the applicant may have. In order to conduct a criminal background check, the potential employer will need to obtain the applicant’s consent and provide them with a copy of the report. The applicant has the right to dispute any information in the report that they believe is inaccurate.
Other types of background checks that may be conducted include credit checks, driving record checks, and sex offender registry searches. Credit checks are used to assess an individual’s financial stability and determine if they are likely to default on their loan payments. Driving record checks contain information about traffic violations and accidents that an individual has been involved in. Sex offender registry searches allow employers to see if an employee has been convicted of a sex crime.
Who can request a background check?
As discussed, there are many different types of background checks that can be requested. The type of screening depends on the reason for the check. The most common reason for a background screening is a standard pre-employment background check.
Most employers conduct some form of pre-employment screening on potential employees before hiring them. This helps to ensure that they are hiring someone who is qualified and has a clean record and employment history. Some other reasons why people may request a background check include renting an apartment, adopting a child, or getting married.
Generally, anyone can request a screening from a background check service as long as they have the individual’s name and date of birth. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, employers cannot run criminal record checks on their current employees without their written consent. Similarly, landlords cannot run credit checks on potential tenants without their written consent.
What happens if something is found in a background check?
If something is found in a background check, it will be brought to the hiring manager’s attention or another appropriate party. Depending on what was found, the individual may not be eligible for the position they applied for. Background checks are used to determine an applicant’s criminal history, past employment, credit score, education, and more. This information can help employers make informed decisions about who to hire. In general, the background report must be provided to the individual, and they are usually given a chance to dispute any incorrect or misleading information.
How much does a background check cost?
The cost of a background check depends on the type of check being conducted, the level of detail required, and the company conducting the search. Generally speaking, government-conducted checks are less expensive than those conducted by private companies. Checks that require more detailed information (such as a criminal history) tend to be more expensive than those that only require name and date of birth verification.
Overall, a background check is an important step in the hiring process. It can help employers to protect their business and their employees, as well as avoid potential lawsuits. Aside from pre-employment background checks, landlords, volunteer agencies, and others may also use a background check to verify identity and other information. A background check is a useful tool in many situations.
