What is a Background Check?
A background check is a critical part of the hiring process that helps employers verify a candidate’s qualifications and ensure they meet company standards. It typically includes criminal history, employment verification, education verification, and sometimes credit checks. Background checks are essential in safeguarding companies against potential liabilities and maintaining a safe working environment.
Types of Background Checks
- Criminal Background Check
Searches local, state, and federal databases to identify any criminal history of the candidate. This check helps employers assess any risk associated with hiring a person who may have a record of violent crimes, theft, or fraud. - Employment Verification
Confirms the candidate has the experience they claim. This type of background check verifies job titles, employment dates, and reasons for leaving. - Education Verification
Ensures that the candidate’s academic credentials are legitimate by confirming degrees, certifications, and sometimes GPA or honors. - Credit History Check
May be required for roles that involve financial responsibilities. It helps assess a candidate’s financial stability and responsibility.
List of Free Background Check Websites
While free background check websites are not as detailed as paid services, they can provide basic information. Below is a list of some popular free background check websites:
| Website | Description | Website Link |
|---|---|---|
| Instant Checkmate | Provides basic information on individuals including address history and possible relatives. | Instant Checkmate |
| TruthFinder | Offers access to public records, including criminal history and contact information. | TruthFinder |
| BeenVerified | Allows you to look up people’s contact details and social media profiles. | BeenVerified |
| PeopleFinders | Offers access to basic contact information and background data. | PeopleFinders |
Best Background Check Sites for Employers
For more detailed and reliable results, employers should consider using paid background check services. Below is a table with some of the best background check sites for employers:
| Background Check Site | Features | Website Link |
|---|---|---|
| GoodHire | Offers employment screening services that include criminal checks, identity verification, and drug testing. | GoodHire |
| Sterling | Provides thorough background check solutions tailored for staffing agencies. | Sterling |
| HireRight | Specializes in comprehensive pre-employment screening with global reach. | HireRight |
| Checkr | Offers modern background check solutions with easy API integration. | Checkr |
| Accurate | Provides fast and compliant background checks for businesses of all sizes. | Accurate |
How Long Does a Background Check Take?
The time frame for completing a background check varies based on the type of check and the depth of information required:
- Criminal background checks typically take 1 to 3 business days.
- Employment and education verifications may take up to 5 business days, depending on response times from previous employers or institutions.
- Global watchlist searches or professional license verifications can take up to 10 business days.
Factors such as the candidate’s location, record availability, and holidays can also impact the process. It’s best to allow extra time for more complex checks, especially if international records are involved.
Legal Considerations and Compliance
Employers must navigate various legal regulations when conducting background checks. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) is a key law governing this process. Under the FCRA, employers must:
- Obtain written consent from the candidate before conducting a background check.
- Provide the candidate with a copy of the report if adverse action (e.g., rejection) is based on its findings.
Additionally, employers should be aware of “Ban the Box” laws, which prohibit asking about criminal history on job applications in certain jurisdictions. Non-compliance can result in legal action, fines, and damage to a company’s reputation. To ensure compliance, it’s crucial to work with reputable background check providers who understand these regulations.
What Employers Should Look for in a Background Check Provider
Choosing the right background check provider is essential for a smooth and compliant hiring process. Employers should consider the following factors:
- Accuracy and Comprehensiveness: Providers should offer detailed and reliable reports.
- Turnaround Time: Fast results are crucial, especially for positions that need to be filled quickly.
- Customer Support: Responsive and knowledgeable support can resolve issues efficiently.
- Compliance Expertise: Providers should be well-versed in compliance laws and offer legally sound solutions.
Other features to look for include seamless integration with HR systems, global reach for international candidates, and specialized checks like professional license verification.
How to Handle Negative Background Check Results
When a background check reveals negative information about a candidate, it’s important to handle the situation fairly and transparently:
- Verify the Report: Double-check the accuracy of the findings before taking any action.
- Consider Relevance: Evaluate how the negative finding relates to the position. For example, a minor offense from years ago might not be relevant for certain roles.
- Communicate Clearly: Share the findings with the candidate, providing a copy of the report and an opportunity for them to explain or dispute the results.
Taking a structured and compliant approach helps maintain fairness, protects against discrimination claims, and ensures a positive candidate experience, even if the hiring decision is not favorable.
Background Check Costs: What to Expect
Background check costs can vary depending on the type and scope of the screening:
- Basic Criminal Checks: Range from $20 to $50 per check.
- Comprehensive Packages (including employment and education verification): Range from $50 to $100.
- Specialized Checks (e.g., drug testing or professional license verification): Additional $30 to $60 per test.
Employers should also consider any setup or subscription fees when choosing a background check provider. Budgeting for these costs is essential, especially for companies with high-volume hiring needs or positions requiring extensive screening.