Candidate Help center
Questions about your background check?
We're here to help!
We understand. The background check process can be challenging to navigate. Since it also tends to be the last step in the onboarding process, you can count on us for friendly, patient, and efficient support.
Below are some frequently asked questions you may find helpful. Or, call or email us and we’ll be happy to assist!
Our InTouch team is available to help.
You can reach them directly from 8-5pm CT at 414.727.1718 or intouch@inchecksolutions.com.
We understand the importance of timely background checks and strive to provide thorough information on your candidate within three business days or less. However, certain circumstances can cause delays beyond our control. One critical service that can impact the timeline is Primary Source Verification (PSV).
What is Primary Source Verification (PSV)?
Primary Source Verification (PSV) involves verifying information directly from the original source to ensure accuracy. For criminal background checks, this means obtaining records directly from local county courts, rather than relying solely on instant database searches.
PSV includes two main types of searches:
- County Court Searches: We start by searching the counties where your candidate has lived. These searches cover the candidate’s residential history.
- National Criminal Database Search (Multi-State Search): This search pulls information from various sources, including county courts, exclusion sites, and the department of corrections, to find records outside the candidate's residential counties.
By combining these searches, we provide the most accurate and comprehensive information on your candidate.
PSV is necessary in several situations:
- For initial verifications in counties of residence.
- When the multi-state search pulls potential records for your candidate, ensuring the records are accurate, up-to-date, and relevant.
The duration of PSV can vary due to:
- Public Access: Some county courts offer public access sites, allowing us to perform PSV in-house almost instantly.
- Court Requests: In other cases, records must be obtained by dispatching a researcher to the court. This process depends on the court clerk’s availability and workload. If records are archived, it may take even longer.
Despite potential delays, our team is trained to handle these processes efficiently and track requests to obtain records as quickly as possible.
Accurate, up-to-date information is crucial for making informed hiring decisions. While some PSVs may take longer than expected, they are essential to ensure the integrity of the background check process and help you secure the best candidates for your company.
Learn more about your rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
We can help you with the dispute process by contacting us in one of the following ways:
Office: 414.727.1718
Fax: 414.727.5510
Email: intouch@inchecksolutions.com
Is it legal to conduct background checks on minors?
Yes, it is legal to run a background check on a minor. However, there are specific requirements to follow, primarily under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). Minors cannot enter into legally-binding agreements, so employers should include an authorization form that has consent from the minor's parent or guardian.
What will I see on a minor’s background check?
- Criminal Records:
- Juvenile courts seal minor criminal records, and they are not released for public inquiry.
- Exceptions exist if the minor was convicted as an adult; those records are typically open to public inquiry.
- State sex offender registry information may be available, but details can vary.
- Always check with legal counsel to understand the laws in your state.
- Employment and Education:
- Past employment and education verifications are available for minors.
- Information on work or volunteer history can be verified through primary sources, just like for adults.
- Credit:
- Minors usually do not have credit histories until the age of 18.
- If they obtained credit with a co-signer, there might be a brief credit history.
- State and city credit restrictions applicable to adults also apply to minors.
What should I consider when conducting background checks on minors?
- Policy Implementation:
- Establish a clear policy for conducting background checks on minors.
- Ensure the policy includes obtaining legal consent, typically through an authorization form signed by a parent or guardian.
- Work with legal counsel to ensure compliance with state laws and regulations.
Key Takeaways:
- Consent: Always obtain legally-binding consent from a parent or guardian.
- Policy: Have a clear and consistent policy for screening minors.
- Compliance: Stay informed about state laws and consult with legal counsel.
For additional information on state-by-state laws regarding juvenile records and adult court transfers, the National Conference of State Legislators is a valuable resource.
By implementing these practices, you can ensure a thorough and compliant screening process for minor applicants.