Applying for a new job or apartment is exciting. However, background checks can lower that excitement. As a job seeker or potential tenant, knowing how long checks take is essential. Delays can happen, so understanding why is helpful. An experienced attorney can assist you in this process.
The time for a background check can vary. Factors include the type of screening, the company doing the check, and whether you need multiple screenings. Recent name changes or many addresses can also affect timing. This guide will cover typical timelines for different background checks and common reasons for delays.
Delays are common, especially during holidays or busy times. If you face long delays from errors or FCRA violations, contact a background check attorney for help.
How Long Does a Background Check Take?
The time it takes for a background check varies by several factors. Most standard checks return results in 24 to 72 hours. However, more complex searches can take weeks or even months to finish.
What Are the Different Types of Screenings and Their Average Turnaround Times?
At Haseeb Legal, we know waiting for background check results can be stressful. To help you plan, we’ve created a simple table. It shows common background checks and their usual timeframes. Keep in mind that these times can vary based on the checking company’s workload or the complexity of your history.
| Type of Check | What It Looks At | How Long It Usually Takes |
| Criminal Background | Your past run-ins with the law | 1-3 days |
| Credit History | How you handle money and bills | A few minutes to 1 day |
| Employment History | Where you’ve worked before | 2-5 days |
| Education Check | Your school and college info | 2-5 days |
| Driving Record | Your history behind the wheel | 1-3 days |
| Professional License | If your work licenses are real | 1-3 days |
| FBI Background | A deep dive into your past | 3-7 days |
| International Check | Your history in other countries | 5-10 days |
| Social Media Look | What you post online | 1-3 days |
| Fingerprint Check | Matches your prints to records | 1-3 days (electronic), 1-4 weeks (paper) |
Keep in mind that sometimes checks take longer. This could happen if:
- The places checking your info are super busy.
- Your history is complicated or you’ve lived in many places.
- Some records are hard to find or only on paper.
If your background check is taking too long or you think there might be mistakes, don’t worry! That’s where we at Haseeb Legal come in. We’re experts in credit reporting law and can help make sure your rights are protected. Just give us a call, and we’ll guide you through what to do next.
Remember, background checks can take time, but you have rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). We’re here to help you understand and use those rights if you need help.
To know more about the law visit federal trade commission
How Long Does a Criminal Background Check Take?
Criminal background checks usually take about 3 business days. But don’t be surprised if it takes a bit longer—up to a week or two. This can happen if someone has a long list of past crimes or if the courts are super busy. Remember, weekends and holidays don’t count in this timeline. If you’re worried about how long it’s taking, give Haseeb Legal a call. We’re here to help make sure everything’s fair and square.
How Long Does an Employment Background Check Take?
Most of the time, you’ll be waiting 2 to 5 business days for an employment background check to finish up. Some companies say they can do it fast, while others might need more time if you’ve had many jobs or attended several schools. It might be worth checking in if it takes longer than a week. At Haseeb Legal, we can help you understand what’s normal and what’s not.
How Long Does an Employment Verification Take?
Employment verification is different from a full background check. It’s just about checking where you’ve worked before. This usually takes about the same time as a regular employment background check – around 2 to 5 business days. It might be even faster if your old boss is quick to answer. But if they’re slow, it could take a bit longer. Don’t worry, though; this is pretty normal.
How Long Does a Federal Background Check Take?
Federal background checks are quite different. They are often required for important government jobs. A basic federal check may take 4 to 7 business days. But if you’re applying for a job needing security clearance, be prepared! These checks can take months or even over a year. It’s a thorough review of your past, so it takes time to complete properly.
How Long Does a Fingerprint Background Check Take?
Fingerprint checks are cool because they’re super accurate. You’ll probably get results in 1 to 3 business days if your fingerprints are sent electronically. But if they’re done the old-school way with ink and paper, it could take 1 to 4 weeks. Electronics are faster, but some places still use paper. If you’re in a hurry, ask if electronics is an option.
How Long Do Other Types of Background Checks Take?
Most background checks take about 2 to 7 business days. This includes employment checks, reference checks, and sex offender registry checks. More thorough searches, like security clearance checks, can take weeks or even months. These checks delve deep into an applicant’s life, including every address they’ve lived at. They usually take longer than standard employment screenings. You often need security clearance checks for jobs with the Department of Homeland Security, military roles, and positions that deal with sensitive information.
International background checks often take longer to process. They check information about applicants from countries outside the United States, requiring more detailed screening. For more details, review the background check screening chart and turnaround times above.
Why Is My Background Check Taking So Long?
Waiting for your background check results can feel like watching paint dry. At Haseeb Legal, we understand your frustration. It’s tough when you’re excited to start a new job or move into a new home. Let’s dive into why your background check might be moving at a snail’s pace.
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What Are the Main Reasons for a Delay?
Key factors that can affect how long a background check takes are:
- Accuracy of Information: If the information given during the application process is wrong or missing, it can cause delays. The background check company will need extra time to verify the details.
- Court and Jurisdictional Delays: Some areas may face backlogs or closures. This can happen during holidays or for other administrative reasons. As a result, retrieving records may take longer.
- Background Complexity: People with many addresses or jobs may need more time for a complete check.
- Technical Issues: Sometimes, computer glitches or system outages can stop the background check process for a bit.
- Security Clearance Requirements: For jobs that need security clearances, background checks are very detailed. These checks can take weeks or even months to finish.
- Human Errors: Mistakes by the background check company in data entry or investigations can cause delays.
If you’re worried about your background check or think there might be a problem, contact the team at Haseeb Legal. We are experts in credit reporting law. We can help protect your rights during the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a standard background check take?
The time it takes to complete a standard background check varies. It depends on factors like the type of check and upcoming holidays. Typically, a standard background check takes 1 to 7 business days, but this can change.
During these checks, a person’s criminal records, identity, job history, and education are reviewed. Many landlords and employers check sex offender registry records. They do this to see if an applicant is trustworthy. More complex searches take longer to verify details.
How long does a state background check take?
A state background check usually takes 1 to 3 business days. The screening company reviews the applicant’s information based on state laws. They look closely at the applicant’s criminal history, sex offender registry, employment history, education, court records, and more. Even though state checks are quick, delays can happen. For example, if records need further review or if courthouses are closed for holidays, the process may take longer.
How long does a level 2 background check take?
A Level 2 background check usually takes 3 business days to a few weeks (3-14 days) or more. The timing can vary. This check makes screening better. It adds fingerprinting and searches state and national databases in detail. Unlike basic state checks, Level 2 screenings look at records nationwide for a complete view. Because of its thoroughness, this check requires more time, from a few days to several weeks. If you think the background check company got it wrong and have worries, Consumer Attorneys can help you find answers.
