How Long Does a Background Check Take?
You’ve requested a background check and are now eagerly awaiting the results. Whether you’re applying for a new job or an employer seeking information on a potential hire, you might wonder, “How long does a background check take?”
What is a background check? It is a routine process of obtaining records on an individual. The most common records requested are usually criminal records, but depending on the type of work involved, the method may involve more and take much longer. It is important to remember that when applying for a background check, the length of the process can vary.
I requested a background check, so how long does a background check take?
Employee screening typically takes 1-5 days. This is the standard waiting time for a background check. However, the duration may vary based on various factors.
Organization
Some multiple companies and organizations offer this screening service. If you’re an employer, the time it takes for the process can depend on the reliability and thoroughness of the company you choose. Some have faster turnaround times than others, but fast only sometimes means accurate and thorough, so keep this in mind.
Industry
The industry you’re applying to can affect the background check duration. While most employers request a basic criminal record, additional information can be required, resulting in a longer turnaround time. Different companies have varying requirements and screening processes, so don’t be surprised if it takes longer than the usual five days. Some companies may also request driving records, credit checks, employee and education verification, and social media research. An additional security clearance may be necessary in specific industries, which can significantly lengthen the verification process. Other requests may involve sexual offender records, credit reports, and litigation history.
Why There May Be a Delay with Your Background Check
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It is possible that delays can occur when requesting records on an individual. When it comes to criminal history, a good route can be researching the counties where the candidate spent most of their life. If you decide to go this route, these investigations could take time, as there is no centralized database of every county in the United States.
Once the records are obtained from the courts, the background check companies must verify that the documents are accurate, legal, and belong to the candidate. Depending on the company, this can also delay the process. To verify the records, check out the best background check services – quick, easy, and affordable.
Another delay that can occur is the employment verification and reference requests. When an employee requests a reference check from past employers, if the former employers don’t respond promptly, this could delay the process. Also, international companies and companies that have since been shut down may be more challenging to access. Difficulties with seasonal jobs may also occur. Typically, employee checks take up to three days.
Things to Remember
Certain situations may extend the process when requesting criminal records for an individual. If adverse information arises, organizations must legally verify its validity. The Fair Credit Report Act mandates employers to inform candidates of the reason for non-hire based on background check results. Candidates can dispute the decision.
All these requests, crucial to the hiring process, can be time-consuming. However, it is vital to determine the candidate’s suitability for the position.
