When you’re applying for a job, there’s a good chance that you’ll need to go through some type of background check. While the process tends to be straightforward, how long the process takes is not. Sometimes, you’ll find that it can take a few days, while it may take up to 2 weeks for some types of background checks. Therefore, if you’re asking yourself, “Why is my background check taking so long?” It might not be for bad reasons.
Still, it helps to know all of the potential reasons for a background check delay, and this guide covers everything you need to know. Read on to learn more below.
The Background Check Process Explained
First things first, it’s important to know what the background check is and how it works. After all, is someone asking for your resume taking you through a background check? We have to find that line.
Typically, background checks are extensive checks that dive deep into someone’s public records. They usually verify someone’s identity, verify past employment and education, test for drugs, and check for criminal records. You’ll find that the information that shows up on background checks may vary depending on the type of background check.
For example, a background check for a job that requires a lot of responsibilities may require fingerprints, and this can add a week or two to the process. Therefore, it helps to know which type of background check you’re going through before you start to panic about it taking a long time.
Why Is My Background Check Taking So Long?
There are many things that delay background checks. You’ll also find that background checks can be delayed for a combination of factors. Learn more about some of the most common things that delay a background check.
1. Data Problems
If there is an issue with the information you provide, well, this is going to cause some delays. If you write something down wrong or don’t provide all the information you need to, for example, there may end up being a delay with your background check.
You’ll also find that data problems may involve criminal records that should’ve been sealed still showing up or even financial records that have been cleaned up. Ultimately, you need to check your records and make sure everything is in order before beginning the process.
The good news is that tools like Information.com can help you with this. Simply enter your information into the background check search engine to prepare for your next background check without any issues.
2. Backlogs
This is going to sound a little too simple, but it’s possible. Sometimes, background check companies have too many requests coming in, and they can’t keep up with them. This can also apply to the organization that’s requesting the background check if they have a lot of applicants.
For example, if you’re applying for a job in the mall during the holiday season (when stores hire a lot of retail workers), the background check may take longer due to volume.
3. The Type of Background Check
We touched on this briefly earlier, but the type of background check that’s being run can also influence the outcome. Background checks that require fingerprinting may take a lot longer than ones that don’t. Also, if drug tests are involved and you have to schedule them, the process may take a lot longer.
In these cases, it’s not uncommon for background checks to take more than a few weeks. If you’re concerned, do your best to schedule appointments for fingerprints and drug testing sooner rather than later.
4. County Clerk and Court Issues
Another problem that can happen is at the courthouse level or the county clerk level. If a clerk is unable to find documents or the courts can’t access something, you’ll find that it may take longer for your background check to process.
In these cases, you shouldn’t have to worry about any problems with your records because this is clerical. If you want to speed up the process, though, you may be able to contact the necessary offices or courts to provide information.
Why Is My Background Check Taking So Long? Our Final Thoughts
If you’ve been worried about your background check and found yourself asking, “Why is my background check taking so long?” we hope that this guide was helpful.
At the end of the day, it comes down to ensuring that the information you provide is current and accurate. It also helps to follow up when possible to prevent issues if you’re worried about the courts or a possible backlog situation.
