What Are Companies Looking for in a Background Check?

Companies running background checks are trying to gauge the potential and risk of an applicant. For many companies, background checks are a routine part of the job application process. Employers can dig deep into a person's background, but the employee must authorize them to perform any background checks, including private and governmental.

Criminal Records

Companies can obtain court records on convictions, and in some states they can get arrest information for limited periods. Employers also can see information on traffic violations.

Credit Background

An applicant's credit history also may be checked, especially for those seeking jobs in the financial industry.

Financial Background

Companies also can request other financial records for such things as bankruptcies, property ownership, workers' compensation and civil judgments.

Work History

Information on a person's career background could come from personal and character references, neighbor interviews and past employers.

Limits on Background Checks

Federal law limits what information can be released pertaining to a person's educational, military and medical background.

References

• Privacy Rights Clearinghouse
• Privacy Rights Clearinghouse Home Confidential Records