What does a typical background check consist of? How much does background screening cost?
This will vary depending on the depth of the background check. We allow our client’s to pick as many services as they would like conducted, and based on what they choose and their volume, the price will differ.
How common are pre-employment background checks?
Nearly 80% of all employers will perform some form of a pre-employment background check. It is important that an employer know whom they are hiring to prevent lawsuits, to ensure the safety of your current employees, and to protect your assets.
Does a job applicant have to consent to a background check?
Yes. The Fair Credit Reporting Act regulates who is permitted to access the consumer report information and how it can be used. Generally and electronic signature from the job applicant must be acquired prior to a third-party screening company conducting any criminal record search, credit history check or reference check.
What kinds of background checks deliver the best results?
Our background checks are customized to each client and their industry. Each business will require specific and unique services for the industry that they are in. Many employers choose additional services, such as the Sex Offender Registry, motor vehicle records, employment credit checks and Federal criminal records. We will give our recommendations to provide you with the best background check for your business.
What are the most common criminal background checks?
The most frequently requested background check for our clients consists of but not exclusive to, a SSN trace, the Nationwide Database Scan and individual county searches.
How should we determine which background check is right for our company?
Discussing your business with our team and your legal counsel we will give our recommendation of which services should be used when conducting your background checks.
For example, if your company issues company cars, we would highly recommend performing motor vehicle checks. Also, if you have an employee who is handling finances, cash, or checks, we would recommend performing an employment credit check.
How can I really verify an applicant’s work and education history?
We can offer these services. Our highly trained personnel will contact the applicant’s references as well as their previous places of employment to verify the accuracy of their resume and application. We also provide in-depth education verification as well as licensure and certification checks.
How can I make sure my background checks are legal?
HireHonest is fully compliant with the Fair Credit Reporting Act as well as state governing laws that may restrict the amount of information that can be used in a background check. Any report compiled by HireHonest is 100% compliant.
Should an employment background check be done before making a job offer?
Yes, it is highly recommended that a background check be done before offering the job to the applicant. The FCRA does not restrict an employer from running a background check after employing the applicant, but this practice results in higher turnover. More than 53% of resumes and applications have incorrect or falsified information. By performing a background check prior to employment, it allows the employer to have an accurate view of their potential hire.
How long does pre-employment background screening usually take?
HireHonest has one of the fastest turnaround times in the industry. 85% of our background checks will be returned to our clients within 8 hours. The remaining 15% will be returned within 36 hours. Those that take longer typically include more in-depth research, or services such as motor vehicle checks or employment credit checks.
What information is required for an accurate, thorough background check?
The applicant’s full name, any aliases if known, social security number, date of birth and current address will provide HireHonest with enough information to conduct a fully thorough background check.
Why is a Social Security Number (SSN) trace so important?
A SSN trace is imperative because it allows HireHonest to find aliases the applicant may not have mentioned, confirm their date of birth, and find any and all addresses within the last seven years. It gives our experts more areas to search, which increases the chances of finding anything negative in the applicant’s background.
What if my background is being checked? What are my rights?
The Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions (FACT) Act was enacted in 2003 and amends the Fair Credit Reporting Act. The FACT Act entitles consumers to obtain one free copy of their consumer files from certain consumer reporting agencies during each 12-month period. You may request a free copy of your report from HireHonest.
How can I dispute the results of a background check?
You must contact us at 1-800-569-5677. Each dispute is different. We will walk you through the appropriate steps that need to be taken.
Why isn’t my Social Security Number (SSN) used when verifying a criminal record?
Social security numbers are not open to public view. All criminal records are by name and date of birth match only.
I was denied the job due to my criminal background check, what should I do next?
We do not make the hiring nor firing decisions. We report the information that is found through numerous databases and the final decision is up to your potential employer.
What kind of criminal record can prevent me from getting the job?
This is determined by the policies of your potential employer. Some employers may hire if there are misdemeanors in your background, while others may not. If you have a criminal record, it is recommended you ask the company’s policy.
I am a long-term employee; can my employer do a background check now?
Yes, a background check can be conducted at any point.