Background checks are a common part of the hiring process, and that’s going to stay the same. In fact, most jobs will have their applicants submit a background check during the hiring process, even if it’s basic identity verification.
For this reason, knowing what shows up in the background check is essential. The good news is that we’re here to help. We take you through what the basic background check process looks like and what information a background check might show.
What Is a Background Check?
A background check is more of a process than any one single thing; it’s the process of combing through someone’s public records. This typically involves verifying someone’s identity through the SSN database in addition to checking criminal records and civil court records. To ensure accuracy, it is essential to match SSN and last name during the verification process.
Some background checks take things a step further and review driving records, credit history, and other important personal information. Ultimately, anything that’s a public record is fair game for a background check.
Background checks are usually run by companies during the employment application process, but background checks can also be performed during the purchase of firearms or the application process for college or university.
What a Background Check Shows
Background checks reveal a lot of information about people. That being said, there are a few common things that show up on most background checks. Learn more about what a background check shows below.
1. Identify Information
The most common reason for a background check is identity verification. This is usually done with the Social Security Administration’s Social Security Number Verification Service (SSNVS).
Companies can register with this service to get immediate results on up to 10 names at a time, or employers can upload files of up to 250,000 names to receive results within one or two business days. This SSN verification service is free.
Additionally, a background check that focuses on identity verification will show information about someone’s work history, educational background, and personal information. Social media accounts and anything that can be found online are also part of the identity verification process.
Last but not least, employers will speak with both professional and personal references that may be included on an application.
2. Criminal Records
Background checks typically show criminal records. A criminal records check will reveal information about someone’s criminal history that includes:
- Crimes and convictions
- Arrest records
- Sex offender status
It is important to note that states have differing laws on criminal record disclosure, and some criminal records might not appear on a background check due to these laws. However, violent crimes, sex offender status, and DUIs are almost always visible during a criminal records check
3. Court Records
Background checks will also show civil court records when applicable. If you were involved in a court case, such as a lawsuit or a bankruptcy case, there’s a good chance that it will appear on a background check. Depending on state laws, marriage and divorce records may also be visible.
4. Driving Records
This doesn’t apply to all background checks, but some background checks will reveal driving records. This is especially common for jobs that require driving or operation of heavy machinery such as careers in commercial trucking, school bus operation, or working for a taxi company.
Driving records that may appear on a background check range from speeding violations to convictions for driving under the influence (DUI).
5. Credit History
Credit history is sometimes reviewed as part of a background check, though this is typically only common for people who work in the financial industry.
Credit history reports may include credit scores, bankruptcy information, and the amount of debt that someone has. However, most background checks can only review the most recent seven years of credit history.
Check Your Background Today
The best way to prepare for a background check is to run one on yourself before you apply. Not only does this help you know what will show up on your background check, but it can also help you dispute any errors on your report.
With UnMask, all you have to do is enter your name, state, and address to start the process. From there, UnMask’s powerful people search tool will compile a comprehensive full report containing anything about you that’s a public record.