Harris KhanWhen looking for a new job, it’s vital to know your rights. A background check is often a part of the hiring process, but what does that mean for you? This guide will discuss everything you want to know about background checks. What information is included in a check? How can you prepare for one? What are your rights as an applicant? Let’s take a look.
What is a Background Check?
A background check is a process of reviewing an individual’s criminal and civil history. It can be used for a variety of reasons, such as pre-employment screening, tenant screening, or even dating!
The information that is included in a background check varies depending on the purpose for which it is being conducted. However, some of the most common types of information include:
- Criminal Records
- Driving Records
- Education History
- Employment History
- Credit Score
How Long Will a Background Check Take?
The time to complete a background check varies depending on the type of check being performed. For example, a simple criminal history check can often be completed within a few days, while a more comprehensive check that includes employment verification and credit report may take longer.
Complex background checks can take up to two weeks to complete. However, most employers will not wait that long for a final decision and will instead extend an offer to the applicant with pending results if everything else checks out.
How Can I Prepare For A Background Check?
If you know that you will be undergoing a background check, there are certain things you can do to prepare. First and foremost, make sure that all of your personal information is up to date and accurate. This includes your contact information, date of birth, and Social Security number.
You should also be aware of the types of records that may be included in a background check. If you have any criminal convictions or civil judgments, make sure to disclose them to the hiring manager. This will help ensure that there are no surprises down the road.
What Are My Rights As An Applicant?
As an applicant, you have several rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). These include:
- The right to receive a copy of your credit report
- The right to dispute inaccurate information on your credit report
- The right to know if an employer has requested a copy of your credit report
If you believe that your rights have been violated, you can file a complaint with the FTC.
FTC Laws Related to Background Checks
The Fair Credit Reporting Act sets out the rules for background checks. It regulates how consumer information can be collected, used, and shared.
The FCRA is a law at the federal level and applies to any company that collects or uses consumer information for employment screening purposes. This includes private employers, state governments, and local governments.
Under the FCRA, employers are not allowed to discriminate against applicants based on their credit history. This means an employer cannot refuse to hire you because of a poor credit score. However, the FCRA does allow employers to consider credit history when making hiring decisions if it is related to the job in question.
For example, an employer may be more likely to hire someone with a good credit score if they are responsible for handling money or financial transactions. However, an employer cannot refuse to hire you because of a bankruptcy that occurred several years ago. To search the ri court records for background checks, tools like the Rhode Island Records Page can offer further information for the residents of the state.
If you have any questions about your rights under the FCRA, contact the FTC. They can help you understand your rights and how to enforce them.
How Can A Background Check Affect Me?
A background check can have a variety of effects on an individual, depending on the type of information that is included. For example, a criminal record may prevent you from obtaining certain types of employment or housing. A poor or even mediocre credit score could make it difficult to obtain a loan or rent an apartment.
It’s important to remember that a background check is just one factor that employers consider when making a decision about hiring. There are many other things to consider, such as your skills and experience. However, if there are any red flags in your history, it’s best to be upfront about them and explain what happened.
Conclusion
A background check is a frightening and powerful tool that can give employers a glimpse into your past. However, it’s important to remember that your background check is just one part of hiring. There are many other factors that will be considered, such as your skills and experience. If you have any concerns about your background check, be sure to speak with an attorney or the FTC. They can help you understand your rights and how to protect them.
