The in's and out's of background checks

The number of employers running background checks is growing. Even though most people have little to nothing to hide, it still makes them uncomfortable knowing a stranger will be looking into their personal lives.

Information to be included in the search:

• Driving records and vehicle registration
• Court and criminal records
• Bankruptcy and credit report
• Medical and drug test records
• Education and past employment

After a certain time some items that cannot be included:

• Bankruptcies after 10 years
• Civil suits, civil judgments, and records of arrest, from date of entry, after seven years.
• Paid tax liens after seven years
• Accounts placed for collection after seven years
• Any other negative information (except criminal convictions) after seven years

Applicant are allowed to know what a company will be checking for. According the FCRA applicants need submit written consent prior to the background check being conducted.

Still concerned about background checks? Potential job applicants can conduct there own type of background check to ensure no "surprises" or concerns come up. Some examples include:

• Conduct your own credit report
• Check DMV records
• Ask for your personnel file from a previous job
• Clean up your personal web pages, like Facebook

If you follow these steps and there are no surprises, you'll have nothing to worry about.