Criminal background check forms may be obtained through background screening companies. Convenient, reliable services are available online. A growing number of employers rely on these forms during the hiring process. However, certain precautions must be taken to assure that forms are accurate. It is essential to protect prospective employees' rights, while at the same time, determining eligibility for employment.

Using Criminal Background Check Forms

It is estimated that in 2003, more than 80 percent of companies did some criminal background checking. This is a 30 percent increase over 1996 figures. Employers want assurance that new hires are honest, trustworthy, and dependable. New government regulations actually require that criminal background checks be obtained on applicants for certain industries. Financial institutions would be one example that has requirements to check for criminal history of theft or money laundering. Another example is the Patriot Act which requires criminal background checks on all drivers of hazardous materials.

Criminal background check forms include the case number, sentence dates, description of the offense, fines, and jurisdiction. Some states allow reports on felonies and misdemeanors while others only allow felony reporting. Customers are usually charged a fee based upon the scope of the report. Many screening companies offer a choice of statewide reports or nationwide reports. Also, some block access to information on minors.

Criminal background checks may be obtained online quickly and easily. Costs and services should be clearly explained. Make sure that the service complies with Fair Credit Reporting Act regulations. Reputable companies will give instructions for using the information responsibly. Extreme caution should be used when interpreting results since false identifications are a possibility. The customer must agree to follow state and federal laws when using the information for hiring purposes.