Last reviewed Oct 26, 2026. General information, not legal advice.
Background checks help employers hire safely. When a screening company prepares the report, a federal law called the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) sets the rules. This is a short overview, not legal advice.
Before you order a report
- Tell the applicant in writing that you may get a background report. Use a simple, stand-alone form.
- Get their written permission.
If you might not hire them because of the report
- Send a pre-adverse action notice with a copy of the report and a summary of their rights.
- Give them time to respond. The report could be wrong.
- Send a final adverse action notice if you decide not to hire.
Good habits
- Use the same process for everyone in the same role.
- Keep signed forms on file.
- Only order the checks the job really needs.
- Check state and local rules too. Some places limit what you can ask about.
How we help
Our background checks include the disclosure and authorization forms, signed at our office. Ask us for a quote.