A background check is a process by which an individual’s criminal and personal history are investigated. These checks are often required for certain types of employment, housing, and firearm purchases. The purpose of a background check is to ensure that the individual does not have a criminal record and is not barred from owning a gun. Most employers require at least a basic check as part of the hiring process. But how far back do these checks go? Keep reading to find out.
How much do background checks cost?
The cost of a background check can vary depending on the level of service that is required. Generally, a criminal check will cost more than a basic check, but some services offer a 100% free background check that can be completed on your computer. A criminal check will search for criminal records that are on file with law enforcement agencies. This type of search can be used for employment, licensing, or housing purposes. The cost of a criminal background check can range from $35 to $200, depending on the state. A basic check will search for criminal records as well as other public records, such as civil judgments, bankruptcies, and liens. The cost of a basic check ranges from $10 to $50. Some companies offer expedited background checks, which are completed within 24 hours. The cost of an expedited check typically ranges from $75 to $100. Regardless of the level of service, most checks will require the individual’s name, date of birth, and Social Security number.
How far back do background checks go?
Background checks can go back many years, depending on the type of check that is conducted. State and federal criminal checks can go back as far as the individual’s date of birth, while criminal employment checks usually only go back seven years. The reason for the discrepancy is that most employers are only interested in whether an employee has a criminal history that would disqualify them from working for the company. However, when conducting a state or federal criminal check, all of an individual’s criminal history is often reviewed, regardless of whether it is relevant to the position being sought. Having your criminal history pop up on a check can have many implications.
What are the limitations of background checks?
When it comes to conducting background checks on potential employees, there are a few limitations that should be considered. The first is that not all information is available to be searched. Criminal records, for example, are not available in all states. In addition, certain offenses may not be listed on a person’s record. Another limitation of checks is that they do not always provide a complete picture of a person. For example, a check may reveal a criminal record, but it may not show that the person has since been rehabilitated and is now a law-abiding citizen. Finally, these checks can be expensive and time-consuming. They may also require a certain level of expertise to conduct properly. As a result, not all businesses are able to conduct them.
Who can conduct background checks?
There are many individuals and organizations who are authorized to conduct checks. These include employers, landlords, schools, and credit agencies. However, there are also other organizations that are authorized to conduct these checks, including the FBI and the Department of Justice. Employers are often the ones who conduct checks on potential employees. This is to ensure that they are hiring someone who is qualified and has a good, clean criminal record. Employers will often check the criminal records of their employees, as well as their credit history. They may also check to see if the employee has been sued in the past.
Overall, how far back do background checks go is an important question to consider for anyone looking for employment or wanting to volunteer with a certain organization. While a criminal record is not always indicative of someone’s character, it is important to be aware of any potential red flags before making a decision.
