The most thorough background check is not a function of conducting either a countywide, statewide or nationwide search, but of conducting a comprehensive background investigation that validates an individual’s history and declarations on their application for employment. Often, an all-inclusive background check report is a compilation of all three sources. The process involves researching primary and secondary resources, which includes employers, schools and private and public databases, including criminal databases, in the United States and abroad.

Background checks are being used by more and more employers because screenings are a good predictor of employees’ future performances. Employers use employment background checks to verify the information provided by job candidates on their employment application. These reports are also used for independent contractors and by nonprofit organizations to screen volunteers. An analysis of the information contained in background check reports revealed that 39 percent of the applicants had “red flags” in their histories. These items, which were obtained from a search of public records, were not stated in their application, and included criminal, motor vehicle, and employment and education discrepancies.

A basic background check starts with a scan of the person’s social security number. Then, county criminal records are checked for misdemeanors and felony records. Usually, there are checks of the counties where the person lived and attended school. Employment verifications are investigated over the last seven years. Post-high school education is also verified. The following categories of searches add to the totality of the background check report: credit checks, county civil records, state and federal criminal databases, national wants and warrants, motor vehicle reports, license verifications and other databases as needed.