5 Key Pieces of Information Needed for a Criminal Background Check

5 Key Pieces of Information Needed for a Criminal Background Check

Are you in the process of hiring new employees or considering someone for a position of trust? Whether it’s for a job in a government agency or a sensitive position in the private sector, performing a criminal background check is an important step to ensure safety, minimize risk, and protect your business.

However, not all criminal background checks are created equal, and not all sources of information are reliable or up-to-date. To ensure that you get the best results possible, here are the 5 key pieces of information that you need to include in your criminal background check:

1. Full Name and Date of Birth

The first step in conducting a criminal background check is to collect accurate and complete information about the candidate. You need their full name, including any aliases or variations, and their date of birth to ensure that you are searching for the right person.

2. Social Security Number

A Social Security Number (SSN) is a unique identifier that can help you uncover important information about a candidate’s criminal history. It can also be used to verify their identity and prevent identity theft.

3. Address History

A candidate’s address history is a critical piece of information that can help you find criminal records in all the places they have lived. This includes not only their current and previous addresses but also any temporary or transitional residences they may have had.

4. Criminal Record Search

The next step is to conduct a criminal record search using a reliable and up-to-date database. This includes checking county, state, and federal records for any criminal convictions or pending cases. It’s important to note that not all criminal records are public and that some states restrict access to certain types of convictions.

5. Employment and Education Verification

Finally, it’s important to verify a candidate’s employment and education history. This includes checking with previous employers to confirm job titles, responsibilities, and dates of employment, as well as verifying educational credentials with the institutions in question.

In conclusion, conducting a thorough criminal background check is an essential part of the hiring process to ensure the safety and security of your business. By including the key pieces of information outlined in this article, you can be confident that you are getting accurate and reliable results that will help you make informed hiring decisions.