The demand for background checks by address is increasing rapidly. Our nation has made security a priority in an effort to combat terrorist activities. An address history gives important clues to a person's whereabouts at any given time. This information is commonly investigated during background screening for employment and other purposes. It works in combination with other reports to help provide a complete picture.

Advantages of Background Checks by Address

Address checks are a valuable weapon in the fight against identity theft. Individuals may be able to prove that they couldn't have been living in one state while working full time in another. Online screening companies use address checks to pinpoint locations for further search. This is often referred to as a "hand search" of information not available on their databases. Addresses also provide a starting search point to discover home foreclosures or tenant evictions.

Employers use address checks to help pinpoint discrepancies on job applications. They may discover an applicant's dishonesty if his address is hundreds of miles away from a job listed on his resumé. Typically, background screeners obtain their address information from the major credit bureaus. There is some debate about whether or not this information should be used for hiring decisions.

Respected online background screeners provide detailed instructions about how to use their information responsibly. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the employer to comply with Fair Credit Reporting Act regulations and state as well as federal laws. Make sure that websites have strict privacy policies and proof of security such as locks and security certificates. Choose a background checking company that offers services to fit your needs. Statewide, nationwide, and international reports are available, depending on the company that is contracted.