Getting Started
Which Searches to Choose?
See Comprehensive Background Checks for a superior background check. See Elements of a Background Check for Employment Screening for a complete list of background check searches.Start-Up Kit
The Start-Up Kit is a step-by-step process for getting started. You can download all documents and forms in a compressed zip file [Download Entire Start-Up Kit] or individually.-
Informational Documents
Review the following before getting started: - Typical Background Check Elements: summary of typical checks and charges. [Download]
- Notice to Users of Consumer Reports: obligations of users under the FCRA; summarizes your obligations under the FCRA. [Download]
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Open an Account
Complete and return the following: -
Agreement:
Complete, sign, and return. [Download]
NOTE: If you expect to order CA Workers' Compensation reports, use a California Workers' Compensation Form.
NOTE: 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]
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Applicant 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]
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Applicant Authorization and Release:
[Download]
or
[Download] (fill-in-the-blank version) -
Place an Order
Send us each of the following when you place an order: -
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
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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]
Background Check Badges
We suggest you use an A Matter of Fact Background Check Badge to help get the "word out" that your organization conducts background checks. A Matter of Fact badges inform prospective employees, investors, and other stakeholders, that you are careful in your hiring process and what their benefits are for working with your organization. To learn more, see Thorough Background Check Badges. To view the page they will see when they click on the badge, go to We Conduct Thorough Background Checks.
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