When applying for a new job you may have had to first pass a criminal background check. These checks are essential in keeping a company safe from criminals. You may be wondering what exactly a company is looking for and what is included in these background checks. The truth is every company is different and the type of search they perform will vary. The type of background search performed will depend on factors such as the type of job, the company and the position.

One of the first types of background checks is a statewide criminal search. It is the most commonly used criminal background check in the US and is performed in every state except for Massachusetts and Delaware. This search is based on the name submitted and date of birth and is used to find any recorded criminal records from a specific state usually within the last seven years. The reports include information such as court records, felony convictions, misdemeanors and traffic offenses. Companies use this search when they need insight on a possible employee's legal character.

A county criminal search is another commonly used background check. The county criminal search is the most accurate and up to date criminal record search available. This is a search of any felony or misdemeanor records typically within the last seven years. It is performed directly in the county courthouse. The search is based on the name, date of birth and in some states the social security number submitted. A normal match is made using the name and date of birth. The results will include criminal record information including any charges, statutes, and sentences.

The Social Security Number Verification is when employers match the employees name with their social security number before submitting a W-2 form. The check also searches the validity of the address and name on the file. This is important because unmatched records cost additional money and uncredited earnings for employees. Each social security number check reports the employee's name to the search as reported by the Social Security Administration and three credit bureaus.

A credit report is a verification of an individual's credit history. This includes a detailed account of any credit, judgments, tax liens, bankruptcies or any other matters of public records against an individual. In simpler terms, it is a report of how you have paid and how much you've owed the years. When searching the credit bureau matches the social security number, name, and address on the applicant with information retained by the bureau.

A less commonly used background search is a driving records check. If the job includes a driving position companies will often conduct a driving record check. These checks are reported using a name and driver's license number. They include information such as accidents, traffic violations, and license status. Driving record checks are important because an reckless employee can bring a companies insurance premium up.

A final type of criminal background search that a company may use is an education verification. Companies often want to see if you have attended and graduated from the school that is on a resume. With an education verification companies can verify educational degrees, certificates or enrollment in universities, colleges, trade/vocational schools, and high schools. An education verification confirms graduation dates, attendance dates, majors, and any graduating details.

It is very important for employers to check all employees' backgrounds. It has been estimated that up to forty percent of all resumes contain falsified information. Businesses want to make sure that they are getting the same employee they see on paper. Negligent hiring has led to many lawsuits. Federal and state laws also now require that background checks be conducted for certain occupations. Any person working with children, the elderly, or the disabled must get several background checks before they are hired. Another factor leading to background checks are current events. After September 11th job security has tightened and the Enron scandal led to professional scrutiny. Companies now know how important it is to have trustworthy employees. There is no need to be afraid of a criminal background check as long as you know what to expect.