Generally, when you conduct a background check for a person with multiple last names, you will also have to request a separate search under each of the last names. Hyphenated last names must be searched according to the instructions of the particular background check service provider instructions for conducting such a search. Some online background check sites may instruct you to enter each part of a hyphenated name in the same search box, but with a space between the names. The system will then conduct a single search of their database for the records you request.

However, most public records pay sites will have you search their databases using three formats. You would be required to search under the hyphenated last name and conduct a separate search under each of the last names. So, for a person with the name Catherine Zeta-Jones, you would conduct the following searches: Catherine Zeta, Catherine Jones and Catherine Zeta-Jones. Be aware that you may be required to pay a fee for each online background check you conduct.

It is imperative that you follow the vendor’s instructions for conducting background investigations because each background check site’s database is proprietary and what works on one system may not be effective on another database. If you are using a private investigator or outside company, make it clear that the person has a hyphenated last name or multiple last names so that they can use the proper procedures for the database they are using to conduct the background check.

When conducting a background check of a person with numerous last names, you may want to make sure that all the names the person has used in the past are included in your background check report. The best way to ensure that you have all the names is to perform an address history search. This type of search is private and can be conducted without the person’s knowledge. It will uncover aliases, maiden names and all last names associated with the person and the address.