Background checks are most commonly requested by employers, government agencies or members of the public for employment, personal or licensing purposes. Information in an individual’s background report is publicly available, there certain details of the subject’s criminal, professional or personal history are not included and may only be obtained through specialized background check services.
Background reports that generally consist of the subject’s adult criminal record, including any misdemeanors, felonies or arrests are considered criminal background screenings. Personal background checks contain additional information about individuals, such as their financial record, bankruptcies, professional history or other personal data. In some states, requestors may need to complete two different procedures when applying for a criminal versus standard background check. For more specific information about your state, please visit your state’s page: