A background check is essential for verifying personal, professional, and legal histories. Employers in Missouri commonly use it during the hiring process. A Missouri background check can also be vital for screening tenants or for personal safety during online interactions.
This guide will explore the types and purposes of background checks in Missouri. We’ll examine the key legal considerations and the steps to perform one. To help you make effective searches, we will review three top background check services.
So whether you’re an employer, a landlord, or just a concerned Missouri local, this guide will show you how to navigate the background-checking process in Missouri effectively.
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Get Started NowWhat Is a Missouri Background Check?
A Missouri background check is a process used to verify individuals’ background information. These checks are typically done before employment. However, they’re also done for other purposes, such as volunteering or residential lease agreements.
This check can retrieve criminal records, employment history, and education credentials. The data retrieved depends on the extent of the check.
Background checks in Missouri are facilitated by state resources such as the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Automated Criminal History Site (MACHS), local police departments, and other accredited agencies.
The purpose of a background check is to ensure safety, verify qualifications, and maintain compliance. For employers, landlords, and service providers, these checks help them make informed decisions.
Why Do Employers Need to Run Background Checks in Missouri?
Employers in Missouri conduct background checks for several important reasons:
- Safety and Security: Ensuring workplace safety is a primary concern for employers. Background checks help identify individuals with criminal histories that might pose risks. These criminal background checks help protect the company, its employees, and its customers.
A thorough background check is essential for maintaining a safe environment. This is especially true in industries like healthcare and education.
- Integrity and Trustworthiness: Employers must verify that potential employees are honest in their applications. Background checks can reveal past behaviors, such as fraud or theft, that could jeopardize the employer’s operations.
Ensuring a potential employee accurately represents their past employment, education, and certifications helps build trust.
- Regulatory Compliance: Various industries in Missouri are subject to state and federal regulations that require background checks.
For example, jobs involving contact with children or the elderly often require checks. This ensures that employees do not have histories of abuse or neglect. Failing to conduct these checks can lead to legal consequences and penalties.
- Qualification Verification: Employers need to confirm that candidates possess the qualifications they claim. Education and employment verifications are part of most background checks.
These checks help confirm that the credentials presented by a candidate are legitimate. This is crucial not just for meeting job requirements but also for maintaining the quality of service offered by the business.
- Reducing Turnover: By verifying the details provided by candidates, employers can make better hiring decisions.
Hiring individuals who are truly fit for their roles helps reduce the costs and disruptions associated with high turnover.
Typical Employment Background Check in Missouri
In Missouri, a typical employment background check aims to verify various aspects of a candidate’s background. This ensures they meet the job qualifications and maintain workplace safety.
Below are the key components of a typical background check in Missouri:
Employment Verification
Employment verification involves checking a candidate’s past employment history. This is done by confirming positions held, durations of employment, and sometimes reasons for leaving.
Employment checks help employers confirm the accuracy of the information provided. The checks may also involve contacting previous employers to verify details provided by the candidate.
Education Verification
Education verification checks candidates’ educational records. This helps to confirm that they possess the said degrees, certifications, or diplomas.
The process usually involves checking the databases of the said educational institutions to verify dates of attendance and certifications. It is crucial for positions that require specific educational qualifications.
Criminal History
Criminal history checks are a central part of background screenings in Missouri. They reveal criminal convictions, pending charges, or other court records.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) runs the Missouri Automated Criminal History Site (MACHS). You can search for criminal records on MACHS. This notifies you of any legal issues that might disqualify a candidate from certain types of employment.
Identity Verification
Identity verification ensures that the candidate is who they claim to be. This part of the background check may involve checking the Social Security number for validity.
It may also examine government-issued IDs. This step helps prevent identity theft and ensures that the background checks are conducted on the correct individual.
National Sex Offender Registry Check
National Sex Offender Registry Check involves screening an individual’s name against the National Sex Offender Registry. This check is essential for positions that involve contact with vulnerable populations. This includes children, the elderly, and disabled individuals.
The check helps employers make informed decisions. They also ensure compliance with legal standards and protect organizations from potential risks.
Missouri Background Check Laws
Missouri has specific laws regulating background checks that employers must observe. These laws vary based on the type of employment and the population with which the employee may interact.
Missouri Senate Bill 40
This legislation outlines the background check requirements for certain regulated positions and industries. Key areas affected include:
- Education Sector: Adults who are not students and wish to enroll in courses on K-12 school premises must undergo a state criminal history check.
- Marijuana Facilities: All owners, employees, contractors, and volunteers must complete state and federal fingerprint-based criminal background checks.
- Child Care and Residential Facilities: Employees, volunteers, and others involved with licensed child placement or residential care facilities must undergo state criminal history checks.
Missouri Revised Statutes
Several statutes provide specific directives regarding background checks in various sectors:
- §168.133: Mandates fingerprint-based state and FBI criminal background checks for all school personnel, volunteers, and school bus drivers.
- §630.170: Requires criminal background disclosures and checks for employees in contact with patients or clients in mental health facilities.
- §210.493: Stipulates that anyone with access to children in licensed care must undergo fingerprint-based checks and searches of various registries.
Missouri Constitution Articles XIV § 1 & 2
These constitutional articles address the legality of employment decisions based on marijuana consumption.
Federal Regulations
Missouri employers must also comply with federal laws when conducting background checks:
- Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA): This law governs employers’ use of consumer reports. It requires them to provide notice and obtain consent from candidates before conducting background checks. It also outlines the adverse action process.
- Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964: Enforced by the EEOC, this law prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. It requires employers to apply the nature-time-nature test when considering criminal records.
Local Missouri Fair Hiring Laws
Local jurisdictions in Missouri have implemented “Ban the Box” laws to prevent early criminal history inquiries during the application process:
- Jackson County and St. Louis County: Prohibit criminal history questions on initial job applications for county employers.
- City of St. Louis: This policy applies to private employers with ten or more employees. Employers should delay criminal history inquiries until after the candidate is deemed qualified.
- Kansas City: Employers with six or more employees must delay criminal history inquiries until after an interview.
- Columbia: Prohibits inquiries about criminal history until a conditional offer has been made. It emphasizes the use of the EEOC’s guidance and considers rehabilitation evidence.
These laws aim to ensure that all individuals have a fair chance of employment. They reduce potential bias stemming from past criminal activities.
County Resources
Missouri’s diverse counties have unique resources to help retrieve sensitive information. Here’s a look at some key county resources based on population:
Cass County
Population: 100,000
Cass County provides localized law enforcement and public records services. Residents can access records and services through the county clerk and sheriff’s office.
St. Louis County
Population: 1,000,000
As the largest county by population, St. Louis County has extensive background check resources. This includes the police department and criminal records services that cater to a large and diverse population.
Lafayette County
Population: 33,000
Lafayette County offers essential public services through smaller-scale operations. You can complete background checks through the Lafayette County Sheriff’s Office. You must, however, complete a request form on the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s website to conduct background checks through the Sheriff’s office.
Worth County
Population: 2,200
As one of the smallest counties, Worth County maintains a minimal but crucial set of resources for conducting background checks and ensuring public safety. You can access the Missouri Automated Criminal History Site (MACHS) to run criminal checks in Worth County.
Howard County
Population: 10,000
Howard County provides necessary public services through local government agencies that manage everything from property records to public safety. MACHS is your go-to site for conducting background checks in Howard County.
Dade County
Population: 7,800
In Dade County, residents can access a range of essential services, including background checks, at local government offices like the Recorder of Deeds Office.
Monroe County
Population: 8,700
Monroe County’s resources are geared towards supporting its community with essential services through the county’s local offices and law enforcement. Like all other counties, MACHS will help you retrieve criminal records in Monroe County.
Camden County
Population: 44,000
You’ll need to access MACHS to conduct a criminal background check in Camden County. Camden County Circuit Court can provide relevant details related to felonies, traffic violations, and criminal cases.
How Far Back Does A Background Check Go In Missouri
The duration of a background check in Missouri depends on the type of search. Generally, criminal record checks done through the Missouri Automated Criminal History Site (MACHS) can access records dating back indefinitely. This is unless the records are sealed or expunged by the courts.
However, the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) limits reporting on certain records older than seven years. These include bankruptcies, civil suits, and other non-criminal information.
What Shows Up On A Background Check In Missouri
Criminal Records
A Missouri background check will show any convictions, arrests, sentences, and status of parole or probation. Juvenile records typically do not appear unless the individual was tried as an adult.
Criminal record checks are important for sensitive positions. These checks ensure that individuals with potentially disqualifying past behaviors are identified.
Non-criminal Records
Non-criminal records that appear in background checks can include information like employment history. Retrievable non-criminal records also include credit histories and educational records.
These checks are vital for verifying the credentials and trustworthiness of potential employees. They’re especially relevant for sensitive positions.
Vital Records
Vital records refer to documents such as birth certificates, marriage licenses, and death records. You won’t find vital records in all searches. They’re usually presented in cases of legal proceedings where such information may be pertinent.
Missouri’s background check provisions provide a comprehensive tool to retrieve an individual’s background information.
How Long Does A Background Check Take In Missouri
In Missouri, the time it takes to complete a background check varies depending on the search type. The processing method also determines the overall duration of searches. Various background checks serve different purposes and can be useful in distinct scenarios.
MVR Checks
Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) checks are usually processed quickly. They often take a few minutes to a day if accessed online through state databases.
MVR checks are essential for positions that involve driving responsibilities. A good example is delivery drivers or salespeople who need to travel regularly. These checks help verify that candidates have a clean driving record and are legally permitted to operate a vehicle.
Employment Background Check
Employment background checks in Missouri can take from a few days to several weeks. They often include screenings such as employment history and education verification. They also include reference checks and a criminal background check (depending on the position).
The time frame varies based on the breadth of the search and the resources of the employer or the Consumer Reporting Agency (CRA) handling the check.
Employers often use these checks to ensure they hire qualified and trustworthy personnel. Partnering with CRAs can significantly speed up this process. This is due to their access to extensive databases and use of advanced technology.
Criminal Background Check
Criminal background checks can vary significantly in processing time. Name-based checks through the MACHS Name Search Portal take around two business days. Some may return instant results if no additional review is required.
Fingerprint-based checks can take seven to ten business days. This is because they’re more accurate and match fingerprints against criminal records. They can take up to 6 weeks if submitted by mail.
These checks are critical for positions requiring high security or trust, such as those in schools, hospitals, and government. They help ensure that individuals do not have histories that would disqualify them from such roles.
Where To Get A Background Check In Missouri
In Missouri, individuals can obtain a background check through several channels:
- Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP). They offer a criminal record check service through the Missouri Automated Criminal History Site (MACHS).
- Local Police Departments. Many local police departments offer background check services for residents within their jurisdictions.
- Third-Party Providers. Various accredited third-party providers can perform background checks in Missouri.
How Much Does A Background Check Cost In Missouri
The cost of a background check in Missouri varies based on the type and depth of the search:
- Standard Criminal Record Check. The fee is currently $41.75, as indicated for specific processes like educator certification.
- Online Requests via MACHS. Using the MACHS portal may have varying costs depending on the detail and urgency of the information required. The site itself does not list specific prices, but they are typically aligned with state standard fees.
How To Get A Background Check In Missouri
Here is a step-by-step guide to obtaining a background check in Missouri:
- Decide the Type of Background Check: Determine if you need a general or specific type of background check (e.g., criminal, employment, rental).
- Collect Necessary Information: Gather personal information. This includes full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and other relevant details.
- Choose a Service Provider: Select either a government service like MACHS or an online background check service.
- Submit a Request: If using MACHS, navigate to their website and follow the online instructions to submit a request. If by mail, download and complete the “Request for Criminal Record Check Form, SHP-158” from the MSHP website.
- Pay the Fee: Pay the required fee online or via mail, as the service provider specifies.
- Receive Report: The completion time can vary. This usually depends on the type of search and whether you apply online or via mail.
Best Background Check Missouri
Choosing the right consumer reporting agency is crucial for accurate and comprehensive results. Below are some of the top background check services in Missouri.
1. TruthFinder – Best for In-Depth Background Checks
Overview
TruthFinder is highly regarded for its thoroughness and accuracy in conducting background checks. This makes it an excellent option for those seeking detailed information in Missouri.
The background check service scans through millions of databases to compile comprehensive reports. The details retrieved are valuable for Missouri locals or businesses looking to learn more about persons of interest.
Services/Records Available
TruthFinder provides access to various records, such as criminal records and employment history. You can also retrieve useful details like past addresses. The platform is especially useful for Missouri residents who want quick checks. You don’t have to wait for days or weeks to retrieve accurate data.
Customer Reviews
Users often highlight TruthFinder’s reliability and the wealth of the data provided. They particularly praise TruthFinder’s ability to aggregate data from multiple sources. This ensures that users receive the most detailed and accurate information possible.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive data that includes deep web searches
- User-friendly interface that simplifies the search process
- Regular updates ensure current information is always available
Cons:
- Costlier compared to other background check services
- Reports can take longer to compile due to the depth of information gathered
- Some users may find the amount of information overwhelming
2. InstantCheckMate – Best for Quick Results
Overview
Instant Checkmate is favored for its quick processing times and ease of use. This makes it ideal for Missouri residents who need rapid results.
It is suitable for straightforward background checks. This includes criminal records that might be required for employment or rental agreements in Missouri.
Services/Records Available
This platform excels in providing basic background check services. Services offered include criminal records checks, previous addresses, and identity verification.
These checks are essential for various compliance requirements in Missouri. Instant Checkmate focuses on delivering swift results making it ideal if you’re after quick results.
Customer Reviews
Missouri users appreciate Instant Checkmate for its speed and accuracy. The platform’s straightforward reports are appreciated by users who require fast background checks.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Fast results, ideal for time-sensitive background checks
- Easy to use, with a straightforward interface
- Cost-effective plans suit frequent users
Cons:
- Limited depth in reports compared to other platforms
- Occasionally reported inaccuracies in data retrieval
- Subscription model locks out casual users who may need only one-time access
3. BeenVerified – Best for Ease of Use
Overview
BeenVerified is recognized for its user-friendly approach to searching public records. This makes it another great choice for Missouri background checks. It balances detail with accessibility, providing a well-rounded background check experience.
Services/Records Available
The service covers everything from criminal records to financial history. This makes it an ideal tool for in-depth checks in Missouri. Its broad spectrum of accessible records makes it suitable for personal or professional use across the state.
Customer Reviews
Missouri residents recommend BeenVerified for its ease of navigation and comprehensive reporting. The platform’s ability to provide a wide range of information in an accessible format is highly appreciated.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Extensive range of data accessible to users
- Intuitive interface makes it easy to navigate
- Affordable pricing for comprehensive access
Cons:
- Reports can sometimes include outdated information
- The need for a subscription may deter one-time users
- Customer service responses can be slow
Background Check Missouri FAQs
What Does a Missouri Background Check Show?
A Missouri background check can show criminal records and past convictions. It can also retrieve other relevant details that employers or landlords might need. Background searches can also retrieve useful details about an online date.
How Long Does It Take for a Background Check to Come Back in Missouri?
The processing time varies depending on the method used. Personal identifier search requests by mail take approximately 4-6 weeks. A fingerprint-based search can take around 5-7 business days through the MACHS portal.
Checks submitted through the MACHS site generally take two business days. Using background checkers like Truthfinder can shorten the overall duration to hours.
How Do I Look Up Criminal Records in Missouri?
Criminal records in Missouri can be accessed through the MACHS Name Search Portal online, which is a quick and direct method. You can also use top-rated background checkers like Truthfinder and Been Verified. These tools allow you to look up publicly available records in Missouri.
How Do I Get a Local Background Check?
You can get a local background check by using the MACHS search portal. If you want faster results, though, a background check service like TruthFinder can come in handy. Remember to provide as much information as you can before making a search in the state of Missouri.
Where Can I Get A Background Check For Myself In Missouri?
You can obtain a background check for yourself in Missouri through the MACHS Name Search Portal or local police departments. Using services like Truthfinder and Instant Checkmate allows you to look yourself up.
How Do I Check the Status of My Background Check in Missouri?
The status of a background check in Missouri can be tracked through the MACHS portal. Updates are typically posted within the outlined processing times. Consumer reporting agencies like Truthfinder also provide regular updates.
Background Check Missouri – Wrapping Up
Understanding Missouri’s background check laws is important for employers and individuals. These checks ensure safety and compliance in various settings, from employment to residential agreements.
Unfortunately, these searches can take forever to complete. Using a top-rated background checker like TruthFinder can streamline the check process. In a couple of hours, you can retrieve details like criminal records, employment records, and even motor vehicle reports.
Using top background check sites allows you to retrieve accurate data without wasting too much time.
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Published : May 08,2024
Published : May 08,2024