First Advantage offers First Advantage Background Check, a thorough background check service. Employers can evaluate possible hires with the help of this check and make educated recruiting decisions.
Objects and Goals of the Check
Protecting companies against the possible risks of hiring inappropriate applicants is the main objective of the First Advantage background check. The background investigation comprises evaluation of the candidate’s past in terms of:
- Investigating the candidate’s criminal history to look for convictions and other infractions. One way the First Advantage criminal background check helps the business determine if an applicant is appropriate for a certain role is by revealing any convictions.
- Verification of professional and academic credentials. This covers reviewing transcripts of records, certifications, and diplomas.
- Employment History: Confirming jobs, duties, and length of employment at prior employers. This makes the information supplied by the candidate accurate for employers.
- Credit History: Sometimes, especially if the job has financial obligations, it is crucial to check the credit history.
- Verification of the professional licenses and certificates needed to carry out particular job responsibilities.
What are the Goals and Objectives of the Check?
The main objectives of the First Advantage background check include:
- Company Protection: Preventing potential risks associated with hiring employees with unsuitable backgrounds.
- Compliance with Legal Requirements: Ensuring that the company complies with all legal and regulatory requirements when hiring employees.
- Improving Hiring Quality: Enhancing the quality of hires through thorough candidate checks and preventing fraud or deception.
- Increasing Trust: Building trust between the employer and employee through a transparent hiring process.
Key Components of the Check
First Advantage Background Check includes several key components:
- Identity Verification: Confirming the candidate’s identity through verification of identification documents and matching with government databases.
- Criminal History Check: Analyzing the candidate’s criminal records at local, state, and federal levels.
- Credit History Check: Assessing the candidate’s financial responsibility, especially for positions involving financial management.
- Employment History and Education Check: Verifying previous workplaces and education levels through direct contact with educational institutions and employers.
First Advantage Background Check Process
The First Advantage background check process is a multi-step procedure aimed at a comprehensive examination of the candidate’s background. First Advantage uses advanced technologies and databases to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the check. Let’s consider the key stages of this process.
Key Stages of the Check Process
- Initiating the Check:
- Obtaining Consent: Before starting the check, the candidate must provide written consent for processing their data. This is a mandatory step that complies with data protection laws.
- Information Collection: The candidate fills out a questionnaire, providing the necessary personal data, including identification information, employment history, and education.
- Identity Verification:
- Identity Confirmation: Using various sources to verify the authenticity of the candidate’s identification documents, such as a passport or driver’s license.
- Fraud Check: Analyzing data to detect possible cases of forgery or identity theft.
- Criminal History Check:
- Analyzing Local, State, and Federal Databases: Checking for criminal records at all levels, including examining convictions, arrests, and other offenses.
- International Check (if applicable): For candidates who have lived abroad, a criminal history check is conducted in the relevant countries.
- Employment History Check:
- Confirming Previous Employment: Contacting previous employers to confirm positions, responsibilities, and employment duration.
- Reference Check: Obtaining and analyzing recommendations from former colleagues and supervisors to evaluate the candidate’s professional reputation.
- Education and Qualification Verification:
- Verifying Educational Documents: Contacting educational institutions to verify the authenticity of diplomas, certificates, and other educational documents.
- Checking Professional Licenses: Confirming the existence and validity of professional licenses and certificates required for performing duties in the new position.
- Credit Check:
- Analyzing Credit History: Assessing the candidate’s financial responsibility, which is especially important for positions involving financial management. Includes checking credit reports for debts, bankruptcies, and other financial issues.
Final Stages and Report
After completing all checks, First Advantage prepares a detailed report including all the gathered data. This report includes:
- Check Results: Detailed information on each stage of the check, including confirmed data and identified discrepancies.
- Risk Assessment: Analysis of potential risks associated with hiring the candidate based on the gathered information.
- Recommendations: Advice on further actions based on the check results.
The employer receives the full report and uses it to make an informed hiring decision. This process ensures a comprehensive assessment of the candidate, helping employers minimize risks and improve the quality of hires.
Companies Using First Advantage
With its services, First Advantage Background Check assists several businesses in a variety of industries in making educated hiring selections. These checks are sought for in many different economic sectors since they lessen the risks involved in hiring unfit applicants.
Which Companies Run Background Checks Using First Advantage?
Many different companies use First Advantage Background Check, including:
- Large Corporations: First Advantage background checks are frequently used for staff members of multinational firms including manufacturing, financial, and tech behemoths.
- Small and Medium Businesses: In order to reduce risks and raise hiring reliability, small and medium-sized businesses also aggressively use First Advantage services.
- The First Advantage background check is used by banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions for jobs involving money management and financial operations.
- Insurance Companies: To guarantee the integrity and dependability of its staff, insurance companies carry out extensive background checks.
- Technology Sector: IT Companies: First Advantage background check is used by software and other technological solution developers to confirm technical experts and management personnel.
- Startups: In order to assemble a trustworthy staff, startups and young IT enterprises are also interested in conducting extensive candidate screenings.
- Manufacturing Sector: Manufacturing Enterprises: Businesses involved in the manufacture of goods verify employees and management personnel using the First Advantage background check to guarantee productivity and safety in production procedures.
- Medical Institutions: To guarantee high standards of professionalism and safety in healthcare, hospitals, clinics, and other medical institutions run background checks on their staff.
- Pharmaceutical Companies: First Advantage background checks are used by pharmaceutical companies as well for their staff.
- Educational Institutions: To guarantee student safety and high-quality education, educational institutions, including schools and universities, thoroughly background check instructors and administrative staff.
- Private Educational Institutions: To monitor their staff, private schools and universities also aggressively use First Advantage services.
Examples of Companies and Industries
First Advantage Companies from many industries utilize Background Check to accomplish particular tasks:
- Transportation and Logistics: To guarantee the security and dependability of transportation operations, companies engaged in these fields vet drivers and warehouse personnel.
- Hotels, travel agencies, and other hospitality-related businesses examine staff backgrounds to guarantee excellent customer service.
- Retail: To lower the possibility of theft and fraud, chains of stores and supermarkets use checks for managers, cashiers, and other employees.
- Legal Firms: To guarantee high degrees of professionalism and dependability, law firms and legal corporations vet their staff.
Check Completion Times
The time required to complete the First Advantage Background Check status depends on several factors, such as the type of information being verified, the volume of data, and the specific requirements of the ordering company. On average, the process takes a few days, but the exact time may vary.
How long does First Advantage background check take?
The time required to complete the First Advantage background check depends on several key factors:
Type of Check:
- Standard Check: Includes basic verification of identification data, criminal history, and employment biography. Usually takes 1 to 3 business days.
- Extended Check: Includes additional elements, such as credit history check, international checks, and professional license verification. Can take 5 to 10 business days.
Volume of Data:
The more data needs to be checked, the longer the process can take. For example, for candidates with extensive employment biographies or prolonged stays abroad, the check time may increase.
Data Availability:
If the verified information is easily accessible through online databases, the process will be faster. In cases where data needs to be requested from offline sources (e.g., paper archives), the check may take longer.
Accuracy and Completeness of Information Provided:
If the candidate provides complete and accurate data, it speeds up the process. Lack of information or errors in questionnaires may cause delays.
Factors Affecting Completion Times
Various factors can significantly affect the time required to complete the First Advantage background check:
Candidate’s Location:
Access to data may vary in different countries and regions. For example, a criminal history check in countries with limited access to government databases may take longer.
Type of Requested Check:
Some checks, such as credit history or international criminal record checks, may require more time to obtain and process data.
Response Time of Third-Party Organizations:
Verifying employment history and education often requires contact with previous employers and educational institutions. Their response time can significantly impact the overall check completion time.
Table of Completion Times for Different Types of Checks
| Type of Check | Average Completion Time |
| Identity Verification | 1-2 business days |
| Criminal History Check | 2-3 business days |
| Employment Biography Check | 3-5 business days |
| Education Verification | 3-5 business days |
| Credit History Check | 2-3 business days |
| International Check | 7-10 business days |
| Professional License Check | 5-7 business days |
What Affects Delays?
Some factors may cause delays in the First Advantage background check process:
- Errors in the Candidate’s Questionnaire: Inaccurate or incomplete data may require additional requests and clarifications, increasing the check completion time.
- Delays from Third Parties: If employers, educational institutions, or other organizations do not respond to requests promptly, the check process slows down.
- Specific Company Requirements: Additional checks required by the ordering company may increase the overall check completion time.
How to Check the Status of a Check?
First Advantage provides clients with the ability to track the status of a check in real-time:
- Online Portal: Companies and candidates can use the online portal to monitor the status of the check. This allows for up-to-date information on the process and estimated completion times.
- Email Notifications: First Advantage sends email notifications when the status of the check changes or the process is completed.
The completion time for the First Advantage background check varies depending on the type and volume of data being checked, the availability of information, and other factors. On average, a standard check takes 1 to 3 business days, while an extended check takes 5 to 10 business days. The exact time may vary depending on the specific circumstances of each candidate and the ordering company’s requirements.
Scope of First Advantage Check
The scope of the First Advantage Background Check covers a wide range of data, providing comprehensive information about the candidate. Depending on the company’s requirements and the position for which the candidate is applying, the scope of the check may vary.
How Far Back Does the Check Go?
How far back does the First Advantage background check go depends on the type of check and the specific requirements of the employer. Generally, the check can cover the following periods:
Criminal History:
- Standard Period: Typically covers the last 7-10 years. This is the standard period used by most companies to assess the candidate’s criminal background.
- Extended Period: In some cases, especially for high-risk positions, the check may cover the candidate’s entire life. This applies to positions involving financial management, working with children, or vulnerable populations.
Employment History:
- Standard Period: Usually covers the last 5-7 years of employment history. This provides current information about the candidate’s professional experience.
- Extended Period: In some cases, companies may request verification of the candidate’s entire employment history, especially for highly professional or managerial positions.
Education:
Higher Education Verification: The check confirms all educational levels indicated by the candidate, regardless of when they were obtained. This includes diplomas, certificates, and other academic achievements.
Credit History:
Standard Period: Credit checks typically cover the last 7 years of financial activity. This is the standard period used to assess the candidate’s creditworthiness and financial responsibility.
How Far Does the Criminal History Check Go?
How far does the First Advantage background check go regarding criminal history depends on several factors:
Legal Requirements:
In some countries and states, there are restrictions on how far back a criminal history check can go. For example, in some jurisdictions, information on convictions older than 7 years may be prohibited from being used.
Company Policy:
Companies may set their own standards for criminal history checks depending on their business specifics and job requirements.
Type of Position:
For positions involving a high degree of responsibility or working with vulnerable populations (e.g., children, elderly), the check may cover a longer period or even the candidate’s entire life.
How far back does First Advantage background check go in Various Sectors
Financial Sector:
Typically checks criminal history for the last 10 years and credit history for the last 7 years. For executive positions, the check may cover the candidate’s entire professional life.
Healthcare:
Checks criminal history and employment biography for the last 7-10 years. For medical professionals and other specialists working with patients, a lifetime check may be conducted.
Educational Sector:
Checks criminal history and confirms education regardless of when it was obtained. For teachers and administrative staff, the check may cover the candidate’s entire life.
IT Companies and Tech Startups:
Typically checks criminal history for the last 7 years and employment biography for the last 5 years. For positions related to data security, the check may be more extensive.
Advantages of Deep Check Scope
Enhancing Safety:
A deeper check helps identify hidden risks and protects the company from potential threats associated with hiring unsuitable candidates.
Compliance with Requirements:
Meeting regulatory and industry standards, which is particularly important in sectors with high safety and reliability requirements.
Improving Hiring Quality:
Deep analysis of background data helps select the most qualified and reliable candidates, positively affecting the overall efficiency and reputation of the company.
The scope of the First Advantage Background Check covers significant periods and depends on the company’s requirements and the specifics of the position. Typically, the check covers the last 7-10 years but can be extended to the candidate’s entire life for high-risk positions. Deep data analysis helps employers make informed decisions and minimize risks associated with hiring employees.
How to Know if a Candidate Passed the Check?
Candidates and employers can track the status of the check and find out if the candidate passed the check through several methods:
Online Portal:
- First Advantage provides access to an online portal where the status of the check can be tracked in real-time. The portal displays the current stages of the process and the expected completion times.
- Employers can set up notifications to receive information about each stage of the check, helping to make timely decisions.
Email Notifications:
Upon completion of each stage of the check, employers and candidates receive email notifications. This allows them to stay updated on the current status and learn about the results promptly.
Final Report:
Upon completion of all check stages, First Advantage provides a final report that includes all results. The employer can review the report and make a final decision on hiring the candidate.
Examples of Reports
Consider examples of reports that may be included in the FADV background check report:
Criminal History Report:
| Date | Location | Type of Offense | Sentence |
| 15.03.2015 | New York, USA | Theft | Released on Bail |
| 10.11.2017 | Los Angeles, USA | Vandalism | Fine |
| 05.07.2019 | Chicago, USA | DUI | License Revoked for 1 Year |
Employment Biography:
| Employer | Position | Employment Period | Main Responsibilities |
| ABC Corp | Project Manager | Jan 2015 – Mar 2018 | Project management, team coordination |
| XYZ Inc | Senior Analyst | Apr 2018 – Jun 2021 | Data analysis, report preparation |
| Tech Solutions | IT Department Director | Jul 2021 – Present | IT department management, strategy development |
Educational Achievements:
| Educational Institution | Degree | Major | Graduation Date |
| Harvard University | Bachelor | Computer Science | May 2012 |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | Master | Information Technology | June 2014 |
| Stanford University | PhD | Artificial Intelligence | December 2018 |
What Does “Record Judged” Mean in the First Advantage Report?
What does “record judged” mean in the First Advantage check? This phrase indicates that a record in the candidate’s criminal history was reviewed and assessed in the context of the check. This may mean:
- Reviewed Conviction: A record of conviction was thoroughly checked and evaluated as part of the check. The report indicates information about the crime, date, location, and sentence.
- Contextual Explanation: The report may provide a contextual explanation of the significance of this record for the employer. For example, some offenses may have less importance for certain positions.
Common Problems and Their Solutions
First Advantage Background Check Delay:
- Problem: Delays in the check process may occur for various reasons.
- Solution: Actively monitor the check status and promptly provide all requested data to minimize delays.
First Advantage Background Check Fail:
- Problem: If a candidate fails the check, it may be due to criminal records, data discrepancies, or other negative factors.
- Solution: The employer should carefully review the report and make an informed decision based on the provided information. It is also important to consider the possibility of an error and give the candidate a chance to dispute the results.
First Advantage Background Check Dispute:
- Problem: A candidate may disagree with the check results and initiate a dispute.
- Solution: First Advantage provides a process for disputing results. The candidate should provide documents confirming the error in the data, and the company will review the check results.
How to Dispute the Results of First Advantage Background Check?
The process for disputing the First Advantage background check results includes the following steps:
Initiating a Dispute:
The candidate must notify the employer and First Advantage of their intention to dispute the check results. This can be done through the online portal or by email.
Providing Evidence:
The candidate must gather and provide documents confirming the error in the data. These can be official certificates, court decisions, or other evidence.
Reviewing Results:
First Advantage will review the provided data and conduct an additional check. If the error is confirmed, the check results will be corrected.
Notifying Parties:
After the review, the candidate and employer will be notified of the dispute results. If the data is corrected, an updated report will be provided.
Problems and delays in the First Advantage background check process may occur for various reasons, including data errors, delays from third parties, and technical issues. Employers can manage these risks by thoroughly preparing candidate data, effectively interacting with third parties, and actively monitoring the check process. In case of disagreement with the results, the candidate has the right to dispute them through the established dispute process.
Contact Us
If you encounter errors or delays in your background check, trust the professionals at KFZ Law. Our lawyer Oliver Kedr will help you dispute incorrect results and protect your rights. Contact us today to receive qualified legal assistance and restore your reputation. Your future is in reliable hands!
