How to Conduct a
Background Check
Background Check
Start-Up Kit
The following Start-Up Kit is a step-by-step process for getting started.
Step 1: Open a Background Check Account
Review the following before getting started:- Notice to Users of Consumer Reports: obligations of users under the FCRA; summarizes your obligations under the FCRA. [Download]
-
Agreement:
Complete, sign, and return. [Download]
NOTE: If you expect to order California Workers' Compensation reports, complete and return the California Workers' Compensation Form [Download].
NOTE: If you expect to order Drug Screening, complete and return the Drug Screening Account Information Form [Download].
NOTE: If you expect to use E-Verify or Form I-9, complete and return the Client Registration Forms [Download].
NOTE: Please notify our office if you expect to order Credit Reports. -
Account Information: Complete both pages and return
[Download]
or
[Download] (fill-in-the-blank version). - FCRA Requirements: Sign and return. [Download]
- Access Security Requirements: Sign and return. [Download]
Step 2: Provide Applicant with Background Check Documents
Give a copy of the following to the applicant BEFORE you order a background check:- A Summary of Your Rights Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (applicant’s rights): [Download]
- Notice Required by California Civil Code Section 1786.16(a)2: [Download]
-
Applicant Authorization and Release:
[Download]
or
[Download] (fill-in-the-blank version)
Step 3: Place a Background Check Order
Select the type of background check you want to perform:- Basic Background Check: The minimum information you should obtain, even when you are limited by budget or other constraints, see Basic Background Check
- Comprehensive Background Check: When you want to be careful and have it done right, see Comprehensive Background Check: The Best Background Check
-
Employee Background Check Request:
[Download]
or
[Download] (fill-in-the-blank version) - Applicant Authorization and Release
- A copy of the Job Application and/or Resume
Step 4: If Needed, Provide Adverse Action Documents
Give the applicant the following if he/she is to be denied employment or promotion based at least in part on information provided by A Matter of Fact:- A Summary of Your Rights Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (applicant’s rights): [Download]
- Sample Denial Letter: [Download]
Note: You can download all documents and forms in a compressed zip file [Download Entire Start-Up Kit].
All documents are pdf. Use Adobe® Reader® 5.0 or higher.
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