How to Find a Quality Background Check Resource
People use background check services for various reasons. You may be an employer who wants to check an applicant's employment and credit history. Perhaps you've just started dating someone, and you want to check out his past before divulging too much information. Whatever your reason, there are many options out there for background check companies, some more reliable than others, and knowing what to look for will leave you with more satisfactory results.
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Instructions
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Know the rules of the type of search you wish to perform. If you are an employer who intends to use search results in employment decisions, you must have the individual's written consent before you begin. For personal searches, using a name and address will return information of public record -- for example, known addresses, marriages and criminal convictions. These searches can be performed without permission. For more in-depth information, you will need a person's Social Security number and therefore her consent.
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Determine your needed information. Services offer employment history, credit reports, criminal backgrounds, driving records, rental or tenant histories and education verifications. You may be interested in limited information and can find narrow searches, which can save you money. If you want the maximum, make sure the service you choose offers everything you need.
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Limit your choices to companies that are Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) compliant. The FCRA outlines allowable information for background checks and individuals' privacy rights. You must use a FCRA-compliant company if you are using background searches for business purposes, but even if you are using your search for personal reasons, FCRA compliance indicates credibility.
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Consider the user friendliness of the company's interface. Look for agencies whose websites are clear and direct about their services.
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Contact the customer service department. Most reputable companies will have available and responsive customer support departments. If you find it difficult to get in touch with the company or if it is uncooperative or vague in its responses, you should continue researching other options.
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Tips & Warnings
Research thoroughly before spending any money, as some websites require subscription fees with narrow opt-out windows.
References
- Top Ten Reviews: Background Check Services Review
- Privacy Rights Clearinghouse: Fact Sheet 16b: Small Business Owner Background Check Guide
- The Wall Street Journal: Investigating Online Private Eyes
- Summary of Your Rights Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act
- Resource Nation: How to Choose a Background Check Service
Resources
- Photo Credit Nick M Do/Photodisc/Getty Images
