How to Run a Criminal Background Check on Yourself
In today’s digital age, understanding your own criminal background is crucial for various reasons, whether you’re applying for a job, seeking housing, or simply ensuring your own peace of mind. Running a criminal background check on yourself can help you identify any inaccuracies or outdated information that might be affecting your opportunities. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to run a criminal background check on yourself.
1. Understand the Types of Background Checks
Before you begin, it’s essential to understand the different types of background checks available. The most common types include:
– Criminal records check: This search looks for any convictions, arrests, or other criminal activities.
– Sex offender registry check: This checks if you are listed on any state or national sex offender registries.
– Employment history check: This verifies your past employment and can include information on any criminal convictions related to your job.
2. Gather Necessary Information
To run a criminal background check on yourself, you’ll need to gather some personal information, such as:
– Full name
– Date of birth
– Social Security number
– Previous addresses (if applicable)
3. Use Online Services
Several online services offer criminal background checks for individuals. Some popular options include:
– Instant Checkmate
– TruthFinder
– Intelius
These services typically require you to provide your personal information and pay a fee to access the report. Be cautious when choosing an online service, as some may not provide accurate or comprehensive information.
4. Contact Local Law Enforcement Agencies
In some cases, you may need to contact local law enforcement agencies to obtain a copy of your criminal record. This process can vary depending on the jurisdiction, but generally, you’ll need to:
– Visit the police department or sheriff’s office in the area where you were arrested or convicted.
– Fill out a request form and provide your personal information.
– Pay a fee for the report.
5. Contact the FBI
If you believe you have a federal criminal record, you can request a copy from the FBI. To do so, follow these steps:
– Visit the FBI’s website and download the necessary forms.
– Fill out the forms and mail them, along with a $18 fee, to the FBI’s Criminal Justice Information Services Division.
6. Review Your Report
Once you receive your criminal background check, carefully review the report to ensure the information is accurate. If you find any discrepancies or outdated information, you may need to contact the agency that provided the report to correct it.
7. Keep Your Report Secure
After reviewing your criminal background check, it’s important to keep the report secure. Do not share it with unauthorized individuals or organizations. If you need to provide a copy of the report for a specific purpose, make sure to keep a copy for your records.
In conclusion, running a criminal background check on yourself is an important step in ensuring your personal and professional well-being. By following these steps, you can obtain accurate and comprehensive information about your criminal history and take appropriate actions to address any issues that may arise.
