As the world becomes increasingly competitive, more and more employers are requesting background checks to ensure their new employee’s past is good standing. A background check is a way of verifying someone’s history – such as credit score, criminal record and previous employment – as well as validating information provided on the job application.

However, background checks aren’t reserved solely for potential employers. With the right process in place, you can get a copy of your own. In this article, we take a closer look at how you can get a copy of your background check.

Know Your Rights

Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), job seekers are required to give consent to run background checks. This means that employers must have your permission before conducting a check. You also have rights with regards to the information contained within your background check.

By law, you have the right to access the information a background check company has on you. The FCRA stipulates that every consumer is entitled to a free credit report every twelve months from each of the three reporting agencies. The three credit reporting agencies are TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian.

In addition to this, you have a right to know when an employer will be obtaining a background check, the purpose of the check, and what information will be looked for.

Talk to a Background Check Company

Many background check companies allow you to see what information they hold on your record. To request a copy of your personal information held, you will need to contact the background check company directly.

You will likely be required to provide some identifying information, such as your full name, date of birth, and social security number. Some companies require you to provide additional documentation, such as a driver’s license, utility bill or similar documentation to verify your identity.

Once your identity is confirmed, the company will provide you with a copy of the information they have on file. It may take a few days to receive, and some fees may also apply.

Check Your Credit Report

Credit reports are a staple part of many background checks, and they are also accessible to you. Even if you haven't ordered a background check, it is a good idea to keep an eye on your credit report.

You can obtain a free copy of your credit report from each of the three major credit reporting agencies once a year by visiting AnnualCreditReport.com. It's important to review your credit report on a regular basis, as it can contain errors or discrepancies that can affect your credit score.

Review Your Criminal Record

To obtain a copy of your criminal record, you can either visit your local police department or write to the FBI. The process of obtaining a criminal record varies depending on the state in which you live.

You will generally need to provide some identifying information, such as your full name, date of birth, and social security number. Once your identity has been verified, you will receive a copy of your criminal record.

You can also access your state criminal record by contacting the Department of Justice or Attorney General's office in your state.

Final Thoughts

Accessing your own background check can be an important part of ensuring that the information that employers see is accurate. While obtaining a background check is a fairly straightforward process, different types of information may require different methods to obtain it.

By keeping an eye on your credit report and regularly checking your criminal record, you can stay informed of your standing and feel confident in your background check. Always remember to verify the accuracy of the information provided and report any errors or discrepancies that you find.