If you find errors in your background check, it may send a wave of panic through your system. After all, background checks are often used as the basis for deciding whether or not to hire someone, approve a loan or credit request, or even grant an apartment lease. If your background check has errors, it can have a cascading effect on your life, resulting in missed opportunities and a lack of access to resources you need.
However, there are steps you can take to rectify the situation. In this article, we'll look at what you can do if you find errors in your background check, how to dispute those errors, and other helpful tips to ensure you're not held back by inaccurate information.
## What kinds of errors can show up in a background check?
A background check can contain several types of errors, including incorrect personal information, mistaken criminal history, and incomplete education or employment data. The error could come from the company conducting the background check itself, or from the source they're using for the information.
For example, suppose you're applying for a job, and part of the job application process includes a background check. The company conducting the check could create an error when transcribing your name or social security number. This type of error is easy to correct, but if it goes unnoticed, it could cause significant issues down the line.
A more complicated error could occur if your background check contains erroneous criminal history. Suppose someone with the same name as you committed a crime, and their record has been mistakenly attributed to you. If you don't catch this error, it could result in job loss, eviction from your apartment, or even a prison sentence.
## How to correct errors in your background check
If you find errors in your background check, your first step should be to get in touch with the company that conducted the check. Explain to them what you've found in the report and why you believe it's incorrect.
The company should be willing to work with you to correct the error, but the specifics of the process may vary depending on the nature of the mistake. If the error was a simple one, like a typo in your name, the company may be able to make the correction quickly.
If the error is more complicated, like incorrect criminal history, the company may need to investigate further to get to the bottom of what happened. Be patient but persistent. Follow up with the company at regular intervals to ensure that progress is being made.
Additionally, you may need to contact the organization that provided the incorrect information to the company. For example, if a county courthouse mistakenly attributed a criminal record to you, you'll need to contact the courthouse and ask them to correct the mistake.
## Inaccurate data from online sources
In some cases, the background check company may have received incorrect information from an online source. For example, if there's incorrect information on social media, it could end up in your background check.
If you find an error like this, you may be able to correct it yourself. For example, if your LinkedIn page shows the wrong employer for a previous job, log into your account and update the information. This can sometimes be enough to get the incorrect data removed from your background check.
## What to do if the background check is correct but unflattering
It's important to remember that not all information in a background check will be positive. For example, if you have a criminal record or a history of bad credit, that information will likely show up on the report. Even if the information is accurate, it could be harmful to your prospects.
If you're concerned about negative information on your background check, you may be able to mitigate its impact by being upfront about it. For example, if you have a history of bankruptcy, explain the circumstances of the bankruptcy to the person reviewing your background check.
In some cases, you may be able to provide additional information that could offset the negative data. For example, if you have a criminal record but have since taken steps to rehabilitate yourself, explain those efforts to the person reviewing your background check.
## Other things to keep in mind
When looking at your background check, it's essential to remember that mistakes can happen, and not all background checks are created equal. Some companies may use more comprehensive background checks than others, while some may be more prone to errors.
Additionally, there are several resources available to help you if you find errors in your background check. For example, the Federal Trade Commission provides guidance on how to dispute errors in your background check. Similarly, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau offers tips for correcting mistakes on your credit report.
Finally, it's worth considering whether you need to dispute the error at all. In some cases, the mistake may not be serious enough to warrant the time and effort needed to correct the report. If you're unsure, speak to an attorney or a credit counselor to get advice on the best course of action.
## Conclusion
Finding errors in your background check can be scary, but it's not the end of the world. By taking a proactive approach and working with the company conducting the check, you can often correct mistakes and ensure that inaccurate information doesn't hold you back. Remember to be patient, persistent, and to have all the necessary documentation ready to support your dispute. By doing this, you can ensure that your background check is an accurate reflection of who you are, and not a source of misinformation.
