Criminal Background Check FAQ

At Confirmify, we know that conducting thorough criminal background checks is critical for ensuring a safe and trustworthy environment, whether you’re hiring employees, renting out property, or managing other important decisions. Our criminal background check services are designed to offer accurate, comprehensive, and up-to-date information. Below, we answer some of the most common questions about criminal background checks, helping you better understand the process and what to expect.

How far can a criminal background check go?

The reach of a criminal background check largely depends on the regulations set by federal and state laws, as well as the specific requirements of the employer or entity requesting the check. In general, background checks can look back several years into an individual’s criminal history.

Standard Checks: Typically, criminal background checks go back seven years. This is the standard lookback period for most pre-employment screenings, though some states have restrictions on what can be reported after a certain number of years.
Extended Lookback Periods: In some cases, especially for high-level security roles or financial positions, checks can go back up to 10 years or more. Certain criminal records, such as felonies, may also be available indefinitely, depending on the state and the nature of the crime.
State Variations: Different states have different laws regarding how far back criminal records can be reported. For example, some states prohibit the reporting of criminal convictions after seven years, while others may have no restrictions on felonies.

At Confirmify, we ensure that all criminal background checks comply with state and federal guidelines, ensuring accuracy and legal compliance for every screening.

How long does a criminal background check take?

The time it takes to complete a criminal background check varies based on the scope of the check and the jurisdictions involved. Generally, most background checks can be completed quickly, allowing you to proceed with your hiring or decision-making process.

Standard Background Checks: These usually take 1-3 business days to process. Confirmify works with local, state, and national databases to gather comprehensive information as quickly as possible.
Complex Checks: In cases where multiple jurisdictions need to be searched or if the check involves international criminal records, the process may take slightly longer, up to 5-7 business days. However, our efficient system ensures that delays are minimized.
Instant Checks: For certain types of positions or situations, Confirmify offers instant background checks that can provide results in a matter of minutes. These are ideal for straightforward cases that don’t require in-depth research across multiple regions.

Our goal is to deliver timely results without sacrificing accuracy, helping you make informed decisions without unnecessary delays.

What does a criminal background check show?

Criminal background checks provide detailed information about an individual’s criminal history, helping employers and organizations assess the potential risks of hiring or associating with someone. Here’s what a standard criminal background check from Confirmify might show:

Felony Convictions: Serious offenses that typically result in longer sentences and can include crimes such as theft, assault, or drug offenses.
Misdemeanor Convictions: Less severe crimes, such as petty theft or disorderly conduct, that may carry lighter penalties but are still considered part of a criminal record.
Arrests: Some background checks may report arrests, though not all jurisdictions allow the inclusion of non-conviction records. In some cases, arrests that did not lead to convictions may be excluded from the report.
Pending Charges: If an individual has charges that have not yet been resolved in court, these may appear in the background check, depending on the jurisdiction.
Sex Offender Registry: Many checks include searches of the national sex offender registry to ensure safety and compliance with relevant laws, especially in jobs involving vulnerable populations.
Warrants: Any active warrants may also appear on a criminal background check.

It’s important to note that the specifics of what is included in a criminal background check can vary based on the position or reason for the screening, as well as state and federal regulations. At Confirmify, we customize our checks to meet your specific requirements.

Why Choose Confirmify?

Confirmify is your go-to provider for criminal background checks, offering fast, reliable, and compliant services tailored to your needs. Our advanced screening technology and partnerships with trusted databases ensure accurate and thorough results every time. Whether you’re conducting a basic background check or need a deep dive into an individual’s criminal history, we deliver timely, comprehensive reports while adhering to all legal regulations. With a focus on customer satisfaction, we provide expert support throughout the process, helping you make confident, informed decisions.

READY TO PLACE AN ORDER?

CALL AND CHAT WITH AN ACCOUNT SPECIALIST