What is a background check?

A background check is a process employers use to verify a candidate’s history before hiring. It typically includes checking criminal records, employment history, education, and other relevant information to ensure the candidate is a good fit for the role.

For businesses, background checks help reduce hiring risks, maintain workplace safety, and ensure compliance with industry regulations. During this process, Homebase makes every step quick, easy, and efficient.

What do background screenings include?

Background checks vary depending on the job and industry, but common screenings include:

• Criminal history – Searches for past convictions or pending cases at the local, state, and federal levels.
• Employment verification – Confirms past job titles, dates of employment, and sometimes salary history.
• Education verification – Ensures degrees and certifications listed on a resume are legitimate.
• Reference checks – Contacting previous employers or colleagues to learn more about a candidate’s work ethic and experience.
• Credit check – Used mainly for financial or high-responsibility roles to assess financial reliability.
• Driving records – Relevant for positions that require operating a company vehicle.
• Drug testing – Some businesses, especially in regulated industries, require pre-employment drug screening.

Employers should tailor background checks to the job's specific needs while ensuring compliance with federal and state laws.

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Are background checks required for all jobs?

No, background checks are not legally required for all jobs, but certain industries must conduct them. For example:

• Healthcare – Employees who work with patients often undergo criminal background checks.
• Education – Teachers and school staff are commonly required to pass background screenings.
• Finance – Many financial institutions check candidates’ credit history and criminal records.
• Transportation – Jobs that involve driving often require a motor vehicle report and drug screening.

Many businesses perform background checks to protect their company, employees, and customers even if it's not mandatory.

How long do background checks take?

Most background checks take 1 to 5 business days, depending on the depth of the search. Some screenings, like federal criminal records or international checks, may take longer. Employers should factor this into their hiring timeline to avoid delays.

Compliance considerations for background screening

Employers must follow federal and state regulations when conducting background checks. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requires businesses to:

• Get written consent from the candidate before running a background check.
• Inform candidates if adverse action (e.g., rescinding a job offer) is based on their report.
• Allow candidates to dispute incorrect information.

Some states have additional restrictions on what information employers can consider, such as banning credit checks for most jobs or limiting how far back criminal history can be reviewed.

To stay compliant and ensure a smooth hiring process, businesses should work with a reputable background check provider.

Simplify hiring and onboarding with Homebase

Running background checks is just one part of an effective hiring process. Homebase hiring and onboarding helps you:

• Post jobs to multiple job boards and track applicants
• Automate background checks and ensure compliance
• Manage offer letters, tax forms, and employee paperwork in one place
• Streamline onboarding with digital paperwork and checklists

Make hiring easier—try Homebase today.

Related Articles

• Employee Background Checks: What Every Business Needs to Know
• Background Check Laws: What You Need to Know
• What you can ask about a criminal record during a job interview—and what you can't

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