Background checks can be done by employers and landlords. Background checks can show both your criminal and financial history. It is important to know your rights when a background check is performed, especially if you have had your criminal records sealed (also called an expungement).
You should always be aware of what your background check will show. You must be informed so that you can correct any information. If the information is not true or incorrect, it may prevent you from getting a job or housing.
You can ask for a copy of your official criminal record from the State of Arkansas. Find the request form online at acic.org.
You can ask for a copy of your credit report online at annualcreditreport.com.
If you have had your record sealed, always keep a copy to show to an employer or a company that does background checks.
let you know if they choose not to hire you based on your background check
give you a copy of your rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act
show you the background check they received and the contact information of the company that did the background check
An employer cannot have a policy that states that they will deny everyone who has a criminal record.
Local housing authorities must also have procedures for dealing with criminal backgrounds.
. . . If an Incorrect Background Check Has Been Done?
Tell your employer that the background check contains inaccurate information. You should then contact the company that did the background check and tell them that the background check they did was incorrect. If needed, you should send the company a copy of your official background check or Order to Seal. The company will then have to send the employer a corrected background check.
. . . If I Had a Petition to Seal (Expungement)?
In Arkansas, you may legally state on a job application that you have never been convicted of the crime that you had sealed (or expunged). Certain jobs may still be able to see the record of your conviction even if it has been sealed. Some of these jobs include positions in law enforcement, nursing homes, and daycares. You should always keep a copy of your Order to Seal.
. . . If an Employer or Landlord Has Acted Improperly?
If an employer does not follow proper procedures, you can report them to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission by calling 1-800-669-4000. You can file a complaint against a Public Housing Authority with HUD by calling 1-888-560-8913.
