Background checks are relatively commonplace in the workplace, schools, and real estate. Potential employers or landlords can learn a lot about you and your history from the screening. Carrying out a background check on yourself can help you avoid surprises that lock you out of a job or your dream college.

Why Is a Self-Check Important?

The vetting and screening for employment candidates or tenants allow companies and property managers to access a wide range of information about an individual’s past. Sadly, the background checks are not always 100% correct. Conducting a self-screening allows you to contest the records if there are any errors.

For example, an arrest made more than seven years ago without conviction may appear on the records, even after a mugshot removal. Contrary to the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), the filling may rule you out of an employment opportunity or tenant vacancy. You can contest to have the record expunged through the relevant authorities.

Additionally, the check can help you rule out any surprises during your interviews. You can know about potential queries that may come up. You can use the reports to address any issues that can raise eyebrows effectively.

Moreover, background screening can protect you from identity theft. Various types of impersonation, such as signature forging, can do a number on unsuspecting job seekers. A self-check can help you identify inconsistencies and seek to rectify them.

What Should You Check for In Your Background Screening?

The records that you request may differ depending on who will see the report in the end. Your employer may focus more on criminal, educational, and employment records. The landlord may focus more on credit history and address history.

Here are four crucial checks that you may need to preview:

Criminal Records

You can begin your search with online criminal background screening. If you have any criminal arrests or convictions, you may need to request your report from the court where the charges were filed. You can contest any errors present on the record.

Social Security Number Verification

Reports on identity theft are gradually on the rise. An SSN verification can help you verify names attached to your number, indicating your marital or legal change of name. You can verify the information for free on the Social Security Administration Portal.

Education Report

Employers or other institutions may carry out a background check for your education credentials. You may need to verify that your official diploma certificate or transcripts have no errors present. You can request your school to carry out the necessary corrections before sending out your application.

Credit History

Employers or landlords may request a credit history check, which you may need to first consent to. Credit reports are notorious for having minor errors, and it is advisable to make the checks regularly. You may access a free credit report check annually. You may dispute any errors therein through the FTC’s guidelines.

Conclusion

A background check can reveal a lot of information about your past addresses, employment history, credit report, among other personal details. A self-check allows you to review what your potential employers or landlords will receive and prepare adequately.