There are literally 101 reasons to perform a background check, but let's look at what a background check is first and then we'll look at some of the main reasons you might want to perform a background check.
What is a background check?
A background investigation is the process of looking up and compiling criminal records, arrest records, and personal details and information on a person. It could mean many things really. It might be legally required in some States for things like buying a firearm. You might want to make sure a tenant is who he says he is. You might want to check a particular register before letting anyone near your neighborhood. Let’s take a look at some of the uses, as there are many legal restrictions you need to be aware of before conducting a background check on someone.
Why do it?
The main reason companies use a background check is for employment screening purposes, in particular if the role involves certain responsibilities and access to security issues. This will ensure the company known who they are really dealing with, and whether the person has an arrest record which might make him or her unsuitable for the position. Another position where this is important is teachers, as they are responsible for the well being of the entire school. Like we mentioned before, there are many legal restrictions, and before conducting a check for professional reasons, you will want to do some more research on what’s allowed and what is not.
In the US, the Brady Bill requires criminal checks before a gun is bought. This is a widely protested bill in many states, especially Texas.
The other purposes for personal reasons could be for safety when going on a date. It is wise to know who you’re dealing with. You could also verify the identity of your babysitter to ensure they do not have a criminal background.
In the US, the Brady Bill requires criminal checks before a gun is bought. This is a widely protested bill in many states, especially Texas.
The other purposes for personal reasons could be for safety when going on a date. It is wise to know who you’re dealing with. You could also verify the identity of your babysitter to ensure they do not have a criminal background.
Which service to use?
There are many companies offering online criminal background checks these days. Only a handful of those are reputable, and we will take a look at which ones we recommend. In the video below, you’ll see one of our favorite services we use personally, which is Instant Checkmate. Recently we have also had some very good experiences with a newer background check service called Been Verified.
The key to remember is to do some homework before paying a service online. Does it have good online reviews, does it have more positive customer reviews than negative ones? Do some of this research before starting a search, and you’ll likely get some good results!
The key to remember is to do some homework before paying a service online. Does it have good online reviews, does it have more positive customer reviews than negative ones? Do some of this research before starting a search, and you’ll likely get some good results!