Before running a background check or requesting a consumer report, you must inform employees that the information could be used in decisions related to their employment. In other words, individuals must be aware that negative results from a screening could prevent them from getting hired and working at your company.
All notifications must stand alone and not be hidden in an employment application. Employers may give a brief description of the nature of the investigation; however, they cannot use additional text or language to confuse or distract from the written notice. Create and maintain honest communication with your employees from the start, and explain to them the background checking process as clearly as possible. Some states limit access to consumer or credit reports, so employers should review applicable state laws.