When we think of background checks, we’re typically thinking of pre-employment background checks – screenings that occur as a part of the hiring process before an employee is brought on. But what if a company wants to run a background check on an existing employee? Can they do it?
Yes, post-employment background checks do exist and it’s within employers’ rights to run them provided they follow a few key rules. Let’s take a closer look.
Why conduct background checks on existing employees?
There are a variety of reasons that companies choose to conduct post-hire screenings. If a current employee is moving into a new position, a new screening may be warranted. Perhaps they’re moving into an accounting role, so a credit check report might be prudent. Another reason is when company policy changes, and new rules mean screenings across the company make sense. Last but not least, companies may simply want to monitor their existing workforce. If an employee has worked for a company for many years, the background check from years prior may simply be out of date.
What are the rules for post-employment background checks?
The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requires that your organization receives permission from the employee before requesting a background check from a third-party vendor like Metrodata Services. FCRA rules apply to all background checks, including pre- and post-employment screenings.
It’s also important that you make your company policy on post-hire background checks crystal clear. Carefully explain the process and reasoning to your staff and update the language in your employee handbook. Clarifying the purpose and process of the checks makes it less likely that your existing employees will feel taken off guard or offended.
What kind of post-employment background checks are out there?
Almost any kind of pre-employment screening can also be run on a post-hire basis. Background check options for existing employees include:
- Criminal record searches
- Credit reports
- Motor vehicle record searches
- Sex offender registry searches
- Civil record searches
- Academic/education verification
- Employment verification
- Professional licensure verification
- Drug testing
- And more!
Need Help With Background Checks?
Turn to Metrodata Services, the PBSA-accredited background check provider that can help with pre- and post-employment screening while making sure your organization remains compliant with all local, state, and federal regulations. Contact our team today to get started.