How Do Professionals Do Background Checks?

Professionals use fingerprints in the background check process.

Professionals may conduct a background check for employment, school or volunteer applicants after receiving the consent of the person being checked. If the check reveals damaging information, you will have the chance to challenge any false records.

Consumer Reporting Agencies

Professionals hire a consumer reporting agency (CRA) to obtain a consumer report. CRAs are also able to provide information on driving records, criminal records, credit and references.

Criminal History Check

You will have to submit fingerprints to get your criminal report or lack thereof. The entity requiring the check may require a state record or an FBI record. Local police departments can take fingerprints.

Public Record

Worker's compensation and bankruptcies are a part of the public record, and there are laws governing the use of this information. An employer can only consider worker's compensation history if it reveals a medical condition that interferes with the applicant's ability to perform the job, and the Bankruptcy Act forbids employers from using this information to disqualify an applicant.

References

• USDA: Volunteers in the Forest Service -- A Coordinator's Desk Guide
• American Medical College Application Service: Criminal Background Check Service
• MSN: Secrets a Background Check Won't Uncover
• Bureau of Consumer Protection: Using Consumer Reports -- What Employers Need to Know
• U.S. Department of State: Criminal Record Checks
• Business.gov: Pre-Employment Background Checks

Resources

• Federal Trade Commission: Facts for Consumers -- Employment Background Checks and Credit Reports