Waiting to hear back after a background check can be a nerve-wracking experience. You’ve made it through the job interview and everything seemed to be going well, but now your fate rests in the hands of the background check company. So how long does it usually take to get the results? Here’s a look at some typical timeframes and what to expect.
Typical Background Check Timelines
There is no set timeline for completing a background check, as many factors influence the process. However, here are some general timeframes to expect:
- 1-2 days – Basic verification of information you provided like employment history, education, etc.
- 3-5 days – More extensive checks that may include driving records, criminal history, credit report, etc.
- 1-2 weeks – Very comprehensive screening, especially if checking multiple states/counties for records.
Some key things that can increase the timeline are:
- Manual verification – If HR needs to reach out to schools or employers manually for verification.
- Government agency checks – Processing times for criminal records, DMV reports, etc. can vary.
- Difficulty obtaining records – Challenges accessing certain databases or jurisdictions.
Factors That Impact Background Check Speed
Many different factors go into how long a background check takes, including:
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Depth of check | More extensive screening with additional searches takes longer. |
| Type of checks | Criminal searches, for example, may have longer delays accessing databases. |
| Number of counties | Checking records across multiple geographies adds time. |
| Manual verification | HR contacting schools or employers directly extends timelines. |
| Volume of candidates | HR bandwidth impacts turnaround time with multiple applicants. |
Depending on the role, more complex background checks can include elements like drug testing, fingerprinting, reference interviews, employment verification, education confirmation, credit checks, driving records, court record searches, and professional licensing validation. The more boxes that need to be ticked, the longer the full process takes.
Tips for Speeding Up Background Check Processing
While there’s not much you can do to control the turnaround time, here are some tips that may help speed up the background check process:
- Provide complete and accurate info – Incorrect data can significantly slow down verification.
- Respond quickly to requests – Reply to any outreach ASAP during the process.
- Notify references in advance – Alert references they may be contacted to expedite responses.
- Proactively gather key documents – Having some required paperwork already on hand can help.
- Follow up tactfully – Don’t harass, but you can ask for a polite update on timeline.
Waiting for Background Check Results
The waiting period after submitting for a background check can feel like forever when you’re eager to start a new job. Here are some tips for coping while you wait for the results:
- Stay busy – Focus on other projects so you don’t obsess over the timeline.
- Be patient – Extensive checks take time, so wait it out.
- Stay positive – Don’t assume the worst case scenario while waiting.
- Refrain from checking in – Resist contacting HR repeatedly to avoid being annoying.
- Plan ahead – Think about start dates, finances, etc. in case of delays.
The waiting period is usually short, but can feel long when you are excited about a new opportunity. Do your best to stay patient and positive while the background check runs its course.
Can You Start Work Before Background Check is Complete?
In most cases, companies will not allow you to begin working until the background check is fully cleared and completed. This is to ensure they have fully vetted you before you start. There are a few cases where you may be able to start pending completion:
- You’re filling a critical role they need urgently.
- You’ll be starting in a provisional capacity.
- Your work will be restricted and supervised until fully cleared.
- Only some results have been returned so far.
However, the vast majority of employers will want the full screening completed before you are onboarded. It’s best to get confirmation from the hiring manager on when you can actually begin working.
Starting Before Fully Cleared
If you are able to start before the background check finishes, be aware that your employment will be conditional until the process completes. Here’s what to expect:
- You’ll likely have limited system access and responsibilities.
- Your job title may be “provisional” or “temporary.”
- You may need to be accompanied or supervised initially.
- You’ll need to immediately cease work if issues arise.
Make sure you understand the contingent nature of your employment until the check clears. Celebrate fully once you are informed the results are in and you’re officially cleared to work!
Employment Contingent on Background Check Outcome
In most cases, the job offer is contingent on successfully clearing the background check. Here’s an overview of what that means:
- The job is not guaranteed until results are in.
- You may need to wait to give notice at your current job.
- Unsatisfactory results can lead to offer withdrawal.
- Be cautious about celebrating or announcing the new role.
Until you have the official “all clear” on the background check, it’s wise to be discreet with news of the new job. If issues do arise, you’ll be glad you held off on sharing the news widely until fully confirmed.
Withdrawing Job Offers
There are some cases where a negative background check can result in a job offer being rescinded. Reasons this can happen include:
- Lying on your application or resume.
- Serious criminal convictions.
- Violent offenses or drug charges.
- Falsified credentials or licenses.
- Potentially disqualifying credit history.
For most minor concerns like old convictions, companies will evaluate individually. But deliberate omissions or distortions can be grounds for disqualification. Be upfront to avoid unpleasant surprises.
What to Do if Your Background Check is Taking Too Long
While most checks take just a few days, occasionally results get held up. If your background check seems to be dragging on, here are some steps to take:
- Wait at least 7-10 days – Give it time before worrying.
- Contact the hiring manager – Query them politely for a status update.
- Check for outstanding info – Ask if any additional items are needed from you.
- Follow up with background firm – See if they need anything to complete check.
- Discuss timeline concerns – Voice worries about delays impacting start date.
- Ask about expedited service – See if they can rush the process if needed.
- Provide payment – Offer to pay fees for expedited screening if possible.
With a polite and professional tone, see if you can get clarity on expected timeframes. Most checks don’t take over two weeks unless issues arise. Flag delays early so they can accelerate if needed.
Receiving and Reviewing Your Background Check
When the background check is complete, you’ll typically get notified by the employer that it has cleared. But you also have the right to review the actual report. Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, you can ask for a copy from either the employer or screening company. Reviewing the report allows you to:
- Confirm accuracy of information.
- Check for errors that may impact employment.
- Address potential concerns or discrepancies.
- Have evidence in case of dispute over results.
Ask for a complete copy of the background check used to make an employment decision if you have concerns over its contents. This allows you to ensure it is accurate and dispute erroneous information.
Conclusion
Waiting for background check results to come back can be an anxious time. But most checks take just a few days as long as information is accurate and accessible. To get through it stress-free, give it about a week before politely following up, and avoid over-celebrating the job offer until you get the green light. With an understanding of typical timelines and factors impacting the process, you can keep the background check experience running smoothly.