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What to Expect During Your Background Check

Getting a background check can feel like waiting for test results—you know it's coming, but you're not quite sure what to expect. Let's cut through the uncertainty and give you the straight facts about what happens during your CIChecked background screening.

Your Timeline: Faster Than You Think

Here's some good news: while other background check companies are still shuffling papers and "processing your request," we're already delivering results. Our average turnaround time is just 1.5 days—that's 88% of all searches completed within one day. We're not bragging (okay, maybe a little), but speed matters when you're waiting to start your new job.

Compare that to the industry standard of 3-5 business days, and you'll see why employers choose CIChecked when they want results without the wait.

What We're Actually Checking

Every background check is different based on the position you're applying for, but here's what typically gets verified:

Identity Verification We confirm you are who you say you are. This isn't personal—it's about making sure we're checking the right person's records. We'll verify your Social Security Number, address history, and basic identifying information.

Criminal History We search relevant criminal databases and court records. This isn't a fishing expedition—we're looking for convictions that might be relevant to your specific role. An old traffic ticket? Probably not relevant. A conviction related to the job duties? That might matter.

Employment History We contact your previous employers to confirm dates, job titles, and sometimes job performance. Most employers will only verify basic information like "Yes, John worked here from 2020 to 2023 as a Marketing Manager."

Education Verification If your role requires specific education or certifications, we'll verify those directly with the schools or certifying bodies. This is pretty straightforward—either you graduated or you didn't.

Additional Checks (When Relevant) Depending on your role, we might also check:

  • Professional licenses
  • Credit history (for financial positions)
  • Motor vehicle records (for driving positions)
  • Industry-specific databases

How You'll Be Contacted

Most background checks proceed smoothly without any need to contact you. But if we need additional information or clarification, here's how we'll reach out:

  • Email first: We'll send you a clear email explaining what we need
  • Phone follow-up: If email doesn't work, we'll call the number you provided
  • Through your employer: Sometimes your HR contact will relay our questions

We won't leave cryptic voicemails or send confusing letters. If we contact you, we'll explain exactly what we need and why.

What Documents You Might Need

In most cases, you won't need to provide anything additional. But occasionally, we might ask for:

  • Proof of education: Official transcripts or diplomas for degree verification
  • License documentation: Current professional licenses or certifications
  • Court documents: If there are questions about criminal record details
  • Employment records: Pay stubs or employment letters for hard-to-verify positions

Don't panic if we ask for documentation—it's usually just to clarify something that wasn't clear in the initial records.

If Something Looks Wrong

Here's an important fact: background check databases aren't perfect. Sometimes information is outdated, incomplete, or just plain wrong. If something appears on your background check that doesn't look right, you have the right to dispute it.

We'll walk you through the dispute process if needed, but the key thing to know is that you'll have an opportunity to review your report and correct any errors before your employer makes a final decision.

What Happens Next

Once your background check is complete, the results go directly to your employer—not to you first. This is how the process works industry-wide, and it's required by law. Your employer will then follow their own internal process for reviewing results and making hiring decisions.

If there's information that might affect your hiring, federal law requires your employer to give you a chance to respond before making a final decision. They'll send you a copy of the report and information about your rights.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

Stay reachable: Keep your phone and email accessible during the background check process. The faster we can reach you if needed, the faster your check gets completed.

Be honest upfront: If there's something in your background that might come up, it's usually better to discuss it with your employer beforehand rather than let them discover it during the screening.

Don't stress over every detail: Employers aren't looking for perfection—they're looking for honesty and making sure you're a good fit for the specific role.

Ask questions: If your employer mentions the background check will include specific types of searches, feel free to ask what that means. Most employers are happy to explain their process.

The Bottom Line

Background checks aren't designed to catch you doing something wrong—they're designed to verify you're who you say you are and that you're qualified for the position. The vast majority of background checks are completed without any issues, and most employers understand that everyone has a history.

Our job is to provide accurate, timely information so your employer can make an informed decision. Your job is to be honest, stay reachable, and not let the process stress you out more than necessary.

Questions about your specific background check? Your employer's HR team is your first point of contact, but if there are technical issues or disputes about the information itself, we're here to help at (518) 271-7546.