What a Background Check Actually Reveals About You
When it comes time to apply for a job, rent an apartment, or secure a volunteer role, the information that appears on a background check can greatly impact your opportunities. Understanding what is being reported about you is essential in order to correct any inaccuracies.
So, what exactly is a background check and why is it important to be aware of its contents?
Understanding Background Checks
A background check reveals basic information such as your full name and age, as well as details about your employment history, education, and more. The contents of a background check will vary depending on the type requested. Here are some examples of what might be included:
- Employment Checks: This can include criminal records, identity verification, past addresses, education or employment verification, and driving records for certain roles.
- Tenant Screening Reports: Information like eviction filings, rental history, address history, and credit-related information may be included.
- Other Specialty Reports: Additional reports can cover professional licenses, check-writing history, or other records specific to a certain purpose.
It’s important to note that anyone running a background check must have a permissible purpose under the Fair Credit Reporting Act. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has provided guidelines outlining your rights during tenant background checks and employer background checks.
Why You Should Review Your Own Background Check
Employers, landlords, and others may request your background check when you apply for something. While they will see all your history and data points, they may not know if the information is accurate.
Errors in records, outdated information, or resolved issues that still appear can impact your applications. However, you have the right to dispute these errors.
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau offers a guide on disputing credit report errors, and you can dispute tenant background check errors through the FTC’s website. Taking these steps can ensure that those reviewing your background documents are assessing accurate information that can affect your job prospects or housing options.
Obtaining copies of your credit and specialty consumer reports can give you insight into what potential employers will see during a background check. Some jobs may also require checks on driving records, licensing, or credentials. If you’re apartment hunting, it’s advisable to request and review tenant-screening information.
Review these documents for any inaccuracies, such as missing addresses, incorrect personal details, or duplicate records. Dispute any errors in writing and gather supporting documents to strengthen your case. The CFPB provides sample dispute letters that can streamline the process.
