Applicant screening reports may also be known as identity checks, background checks, or criminal checks. Businesses can use one or a few of these checks to validate the identities and backgrounds of applicants. They can be very helpful in the hiring process if companies are particular about the employees they hire. Some companies prefer to use these checks just for some peace of mind regarding their hiring decisions. They can breathe a little easier when they know that they have hired truthful employees without major criminal records.

Types of Applicant Screening Reports

Identity checks are the most common type of all screening report options. They screen for names, addresses, average home prices, average incomes, and home phone numbers for individual applicants. These reports obtain information from public records. They will not reveal non-published phone numbers, cell phone numbers, e-mail addresses, or information about other businesses. They are the most common choice for applicant screening because they provide basic information, so they are easy to obtain.

Background checks reveal all of the information found in identity checks and more. They are more difficult to obtain because they provide more personal information about applicants. Background checks may provide information such as tax liens, property information, legal judgments, address histories, licenses, and information about relatives or roommates.

Criminal checks are another option for screening applicants. They reveal any felonies, misdemeanors, city offenses, or sex offenses on the records of applicants. Many companies are concerned with finding trustworthy and good-natured employees. High risk companies who rely heavily on employees to protect materials will often use criminal checks. Using criminal checks on applicants prior to hiring may help companies to avoid employee theft or other crimes.