Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

What is a background check?

A background check is a process used to verify information provided by job candidates and to uncover any criminal history, employment history, education credentials, or other relevant information. Employers use background checks to make informed hiring decisions and maintain a safe workplace.

How long does a background check take?

Most background checks are completed within 1-3 business days. However, turnaround times can vary depending on the types of searches included, the jurisdictions being searched, and the responsiveness of third-party sources like previous employers or educational institutions. We provide real-time status updates so you always know where your searches stand.

What information do you need to run a background check?

At minimum, we need the candidate's full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address. Depending on the searches requested, we may also need previous addresses, employment history, education details, and signed authorization from the candidate.

Do I need the candidate's consent to run a background check?

Yes. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requires employers to obtain written authorization from candidates before conducting a background check. You must also provide a clear, standalone disclosure informing them that a background check will be conducted.

Services & Pricing

What types of background checks do you offer?

We offer comprehensive screening services including criminal background checks (county, state, federal, and national), employment verification, education verification, professional license verification, motor vehicle records, drug testing, credit checks, and more. We can customize packages to meet your specific needs.

How much does a background check cost?

Pricing varies based on the types of searches included and volume. We offer competitive, transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Contact us for a customized quote based on your specific screening needs and hiring volume.

Do you offer volume discounts?

Yes, we offer volume-based pricing for employers with regular screening needs. The more you screen, the more you save. Contact us to discuss volume pricing that fits your hiring patterns.

Can you customize a screening package for my industry?

Absolutely. We understand that different industries have different requirements. Whether you're in healthcare, transportation, financial services, or another regulated industry, we can build a screening package that meets your specific compliance requirements.

Compliance & Legal

What is the FCRA?

The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) is a federal law that regulates how consumer reporting agencies collect and use consumer information, including background check reports. It establishes requirements for disclosure, authorization, and adverse action procedures that employers must follow.

What is adverse action?

Adverse action is any negative employment decision based wholly or partly on information in a background check, such as not hiring a candidate. The FCRA requires a two-step process: first providing a pre-adverse action notice with a copy of the report, then sending a final adverse action notice after a waiting period.

What are ban-the-box laws?

Ban-the-box laws restrict when employers can inquire about criminal history during the hiring process. Many states and cities require employers to wait until after an interview or conditional job offer before asking about criminal records. We can help you navigate the requirements in your jurisdiction.

Are you FCRA compliant?

Yes. Clear Facts Solutions is fully FCRA compliant. We provide compliant disclosure and authorization forms, follow proper adverse action procedures, maintain required certifications, and stay current on all federal and state regulations affecting employment screening.

Criminal Background Checks

What shows up on a criminal background check?

Criminal background checks can reveal felony and misdemeanor convictions, pending cases, and in some cases arrest records. The specific information reported depends on the jurisdiction, the type of search conducted, and applicable state laws that may limit what can be reported.

How far back does a criminal background check go?

Under federal law, convictions can be reported indefinitely. However, many states limit reporting to 7 years for certain records or positions. We ensure compliance with applicable lookback limitations in each jurisdiction.

Do expunged or sealed records show up?

Generally, no. Expunged and sealed records should not appear on background checks. However, some databases may contain outdated information. If a sealed record appears, candidates can dispute it and have it removed.

What's the difference between county and national criminal searches?

County searches check records directly at the courthouse where cases are filed, providing the most accurate and detailed information. National database searches aggregate records from multiple sources for broad coverage but may have gaps. We recommend combining both for comprehensive screening.

Drug Testing

What drug testing options do you offer?

We offer urine, hair, and oral fluid (saliva) testing with various panel options from 5-panel to expanded panels. We support pre-employment, random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion, and return-to-duty testing with nationwide collection site coverage.

How quickly do drug test results come back?

Negative results typically come back within 24-48 hours. Non-negative results require confirmation testing and Medical Review Officer (MRO) review, which may take 2-3 additional business days.

Do you provide DOT drug testing?

Yes. We provide fully DOT-compliant drug and alcohol testing for commercial drivers and other safety-sensitive positions. This includes required 5-panel testing, MRO services, and Clearinghouse reporting.