How Far Back Do Background Checks Go?

When it comes to conducting background checks, understanding the scope of a background check is crucial for both employers and individuals, whether you’re hiring new employees, or verifying an individual’s history for other reasons. While some people ask How Far Back Do Background Checks Go? The timeframe of a background check depends on the type of report you select, we offer a variety of reports to suit your specific needs.

1. PerfectRECORD Report: 7-Year History Search

The PerfectRECORD Report is designed for those who need a focused and concise search into an individual’s history. This report offers a 7-year history search, which is the standard for most background checks. Many employers, and organizations prefer this report because it adheres to legal regulations and focuses on the most recent and relevant information. If you’re asking how far back background checks go for a typical employment or rental screening, the 7-year search is often your best option.

What’s Included in the PerfectRECORD Report?

• Criminal Records: Searches for any felonies or misdemeanors within the last 7 years.
• Employment History: Verifies past employment for up to 7 years, including dates of employment and job titles.
• Credit History: Provides a snapshot of the individual’s credit report over the past 7 years.
• Driving Records: Includes information on violations or accidents reported in the last 7 years.

The PerfectRECORD Report is perfect for most common background check needs, and it ensures compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) guidelines. This report is ideal for businesses who need up-to-date and legally compliant screening information.

2. Unlimited Data Report: 30-Year History Search

For those who need a deeper dive into an individual’s background, the Unlimited Data Report provides a 30-year history search. This comprehensive background check goes back as far as 30 years, making it the perfect choice for high-level employment positions, security clearance checks, and other situations where you require a thorough review of a person’s background.

What’s Included in the Unlimited Data Report?

• Criminal Records: Includes criminal history, felonies, and misdemeanors from the past 30 years.
• Civil Court Records: A more in-depth search of civil cases, including lawsuits, judgments, and bankruptcies that could date back decades.
• Employment History: Verifies employment history, including job titles, dates of employment, and other key details from up to 30 years ago.
• Education Verification: Confirms academic credentials from the past, including degrees and certifications.
• Credit and Financial History: Offers a broader view of an individual’s financial history, including long-term trends in debt, bankruptcy filings, and other financial events.

Why Choose the Unlimited Data Report?

The Unlimited Data Report is ideal for employers who are hiring for high-security or executive roles, conducting thorough organizations requiring full background checks for security clearance purposes. By asking how far back background checks go for more sensitive positions, the 30-year search provides the level of detail you need to make informed decisions.

How Far Back Do Background Checks Go in Different Contexts?

The timeframe of a background check may vary based on the industry or the specific purpose of the check. For most standard checks, such as those for employment or rental purposes, a 7-year history is often sufficient. However, in more sensitive contexts, such as positions requiring a security clearance, background checks go much further, sometimes extending as far back as 30 years.

Why Choose for Your Background Checks?

We understand the importance of making informed decisions, which is why we offer two primary options for background checks. Our PerfectRECORD Report and Unlimited Data Report give you the flexibility to choose the level of detail you need. Whether you’re looking for a quick overview of someone’s history or a more comprehensive investigation, our background checks go the distance to provide you with accurate, up-to-date information.

For more details, check out our Criminal Record Processing page, where you can learn more about our comprehensive background check services and how we can assist in making the best decisions for your business or personal needs.