Most employers know the value background screening provides as an efficient way to protect a company’s property and assets. At A-Check, we regularly consult with clients to help them develop a program that represents a suitable balance between automated services providing the quickest turnaround, to more comprehensive services that add time but return far more applicant information.

Part of this conversation typically revolves around criminal record searches and the difference between Database Searches and Primary Source Searches.

Database Searches are self-explanatory in that they are “instant” searches of third-party databases. These have quick turnaround times.

Primary Source Searches are more labor intensive since they can require an in-person visit to a local courthouse at the county, state or federal level. Depending on the jurisdiction these courts are in—and their method of recordkeeping—these searches can potentially add to your background screen turnaround time.

So what do A-Check clients usually request?

By processing millions of files annually, we see patterns in the background screening requests we receive, and use that experience to help our clients quickly determine what will best meet their needs. Here’s a very quick illustration representing a quicker turnaround option A (a due diligence screen with more than 80% returned same day), on up to option C (a full background screen with greater levels of accuracy and results, but requiring additional time).

         OPTION A                            OPTION B                           OPTION C

* All “hits” from the Nationwide Database searched at county level to comply with FCRA. County service completed per name/county searched.

We know you may have questions, and our knowledgeable representatives welcome the opportunity to chat with you. Feel free to call 877-345-2021, or reach out to us at clientsupport@acheckglobal.com.