Best Background Check Michigan: Laws & Screening Services

Employers in Michigan who conduct background checks need to understand the Fair Credit Reporting Act, follow local ordinances, and ensure their methods meet the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission guidelines.

These background checks, which look at criminal records, employment history, misdemeanor arrests, and felony convictions, aim to ensure fairness and equity in hiring.

Such a meticulous process demands written consent from the candidate and a transparent hiring process, in line with Michigan’s clean slate law and the ban-the-box initiatives, benefiting all applicants.

Employers across Michigan, from Wayne County to educational institutions like Eastern Michigan University, often seek the expertise of professionals to help them comply with these laws. This approach balances the need for safety with the rights of candidates, providing everyone with a fair opportunity.

Explore the main aspects of Michigan background checks in this article, including how to stay compliant and why fair hiring practices are crucial.

Michigan Background Check Laws

Michigan background check laws can be a headache for many. Employers in Michigan must follow various federal, state, and local regulations, ensuring they conduct background checks fairly and legally. 

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) sets guidelines under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act to prevent discrimination, while Michigan’s fair hiring law extends to public sector employees. Moreover, county—and city-wide ban-the-box laws add another layer of complexity.

To comply, Michigan employers must follow the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requirements, including obtaining written consent before conducting checks and following specific adverse action processes. 

Michigan also has executive directives, such as Executive Directive 2018-4, limiting inquiries into criminal history for public sector employees until later in the hiring process. 

These regulations aim to ensure fairness and prevent discrimination, but staying compliant requires careful attention to detail. Working with a background screener knowledgeable about Michigan laws can simplify the process and help employers simplify the process.  

Michigan County Resources

Would you be looking for public information records in Michigan counties? Our resource list below will help you discover where to find valuable data in some of Michigan’s largest counties. 

• Clinton County boasts a population of nearly 80,000 and is steeped in history, particularly in St. Johns, known as “The Mint Capital of the World.” Genesee County, with its population exceeding 400,000, is home to Flint, the birthplace of General Motors, offering a vibrant cultural scene.
• Ingham County hosts Michigan’s capital, Lansing, and Michigan State University, seamlessly blending academia and government. Kalamazoo County is an epicenter of innovation, offering rich educational and industrial landscapes to explore. 
• Kent County, part of the bustling Grand Rapids metropolitan area, is an economic powerhouse worth exploring. Livingston County’s easy access to major Michigan cities presents a tapestry of small towns ripe for exploration.
• Macomb County, situated north of Detroit, offers diversity and vibrant communities to discover through its public records. 
• Muskegon County, strategically located on Lake Michigan’s western shore, invites exploration of its rich industrial heritage through comprehensive court records. 

Each county provides unique insights, allowing you to gather valuable public information records essential for various purposes.

How Far Back Does a Background Check Go In Michigan

In Michigan, background checks aren’t restricted by a specific timeframe like in some states. However, various factors influence how far back background check results may stretch. 

Michigan’s criminal records may hold convictions indefinitely, but recent legislative efforts are reshaping access to certain records. 

For instance, recent bills enable the sealing of first-time operating while intoxicated convictions and automatically seal non-violent convictions after specific periods.

Additionally, laws are in place to protect juvenile records, limiting their accessibility. Driving records in Michigan follow similar rules, with tickets typically kept for seven years and certain felonies indefinitely. 

The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) imposes a seven-year limit on certain types of records for background checks conducted by Consumer Reporting Agencies (CRAs). 

However, certain background searches, especially those related to employment history and education verification, may extend beyond this timeframe, particularly when conducted directly by employers.

What Shows Up On a Michigan Background Checks

Criminal History

A Michigan background check typically includes reviewing an individual’s criminal history, encompassing any criminal convictions, charges, or arrests. 

This information is sourced from court records and law enforcement agencies, providing insights into a person’s past interactions with the criminal justice system.

Employment Verification

This component confirms the accuracy of an individual’s stated employment history. It verifies past job titles and durations of employment and sometimes includes assessments of job performance. 

Employers often conduct employment background checks to ensure candidates possess the qualifications and experience they claim.

Education Verification

Employers often verify applicants’ educational backgrounds to ensure they hold the degrees or certifications required for a position. This process confirms the authenticity of the candidate’s diplomas, degrees, or transcripts.

Professional License Verification

For positions requiring professional licensure, such as doctors or lawyers, employers may verify the validity and status of these licenses. This ensures candidates meet the necessary legal requirements to practice in their respective fields.

Social Security Number (SSN) Trace

A Social Security number (SSN) trace is conducted to verify an individual’s identity and determine any associated names, addresses, and aliases. It helps ensure the accuracy and completeness of the individual’s personal information.

Pre-Employment Drug Screen

Many employers require candidates to undergo pre-employment drug screening as part of the hiring process. This test detects the presence of drugs or controlled substances in a candidate’s system, promoting a safe and drug-free work environment.

How Long Does a Background Check Take In Michigan

The time it takes to complete a background check in Michigan can vary based on factors such as the type of check and whether you conduct it independently or through a Consumer Reporting Agency (CRA). 

If you opt to conduct your research, expect the process to take longer, particularly if you need to interact with multiple agencies or obtain physical records.

On the other hand, utilizing a professional screener or CRA can expedite results, thanks to their access to comprehensive databases. This services access a vast database of over a billion records from federal, state, and local sources, reducing turnaround times without compromising accuracy. 

While a Michigan state criminal background check or motor vehicle records search can often be completed within a day, the timeline for county court records varies. For employment or education verification, expect a week or longer, depending on accessibility and the number of sources involved.

Where To Get A Background Check In Michigan

If you want to obtain a background check in Michigan, you have several options depending on the type of scan you require. 

For a name-based criminal history search, you can use the Internet Criminal History Access Tool (ICHAT) maintained by the Michigan State Police’s Criminal Justice Information Center.

Additionally, you can access county criminal and civil court records using resources the respective counties provide. However, many employers opt to streamline the process by outsourcing background checks to a Consumer Reporting Agency (CRA). These agencies offer comprehensive services, including criminal and civil court checks, credit histories, and motor vehicle records, saving you time and ensuring legal compliance.

How Much Does a Background Check Cost In Michigan

The cost of a background check in Michigan can vary depending on several factors. If you’re conducting the check independently, expenses may include fees for accessing certain records or databases, such as court or motor vehicle records.

Also, you use a Consumer Reporting Agency (CRA). In that case, you’ll likely encounter charges for their services, which can vary depending on the scope of the background check required.

It’s essential to consider the balance between cost and the comprehensiveness of the background check, ensuring you obtain the necessary information while staying within your budget.

How To Get a Background Check In Michigan

1. Determine the Type of Background Check Needed: Identify the specific information you require, such as criminal history, employment verification, or motor vehicle records.
2. Choose Your Method: Decide whether to conduct the check independently or through an online background check service.
3. Independent Search: If searching independently, visit the Michigan State Police’s Criminal Justice Information Center website to access the Internet Criminal History Access Tool (ICHAT) for criminal history searches. For county court records, visit the respective counties’ websites.
4. Using a CRA or online service: If you opt for a CRA, please provide them with the necessary information.
5. Review Results: Once the background check is complete, carefully review the results to ensure accuracy and completeness.
6. Consider Legal Compliance: Ensure your background check process complies with all relevant Michigan state and federal regulations, such as the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and ban-the-box laws.

Best Background Check Services

Truthfinder – Best Michigan Background Check for Detailed Reports

TruthFinder, hailed as the top choice for comprehensive background checks in Michigan, emerged onto the scene in 2015 from the sunny shores of San Diego, California. 

The concept was sparked by observing the internet’s rapid expansion and the safety concerns associated with online interactions. Motivated by a desire to enhance people’s understanding of those in their social circles, TruthFinder was born. 

Its founders aimed to provide a solution that empowered individuals to dive deeper into the backgrounds of others. Over time, TruthFinder has solidified its position as one of America’s go-to people search engines.

>>> Read Full TruthFinder Review

InstantCheckMate – Best Michigan Background Check for Quick Searches

InstantCheckMate is a prominent online tool for searching public records, offering quick access to a vast database of documents. 

Its information is sourced from various public records databases, including federal, state, and county sources, consolidated into comprehensive reports. 

Users can effortlessly search for addresses, phone numbers, social media profiles, driving records, arrest records, and more. Input a name and state to initiate your search with InstantCheckMate.

>>> Read Full Instant CheckMate Review

BeenVerified – Best Michigan Background Check for Extensive Records

BeenVerified stands out as a reliable background search engine, diving into public records to provide extensive information on individuals, phone numbers, properties, and vehicles. 

Whether you’re reconnecting with old friends, locating missing relatives, conducting an unclaimed property search, or checking someone’s criminal history, BeenVerified offers an easy and cost-effective solution. 

With access to a vast database containing over a billion records, BeenVerified acts as a sophisticated directory of public data. Their reports include details such as postal addresses, property records, court documents, vehicle histories, and even social media profiles.

>>> Read BeenVerified Full Review 

Background Check Michigan FAQ

How Do I Look Up Someone’s Criminal Record In Michigan?

To find someone’s criminal record in Michigan, you can use online databases provided by the Michigan State Police or county court websites. Alternatively, you can visit the local courthouse and request access to public records.

How Far Back Can An Employer Go On a Background Check In Michigan?

In Michigan, there isn’t a specific time limit for how far back an employer can go on a background check. However, certain laws like the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) may limit the reporting of certain information beyond seven years.

Does a Misdemeanor Show Up On a Background Check In Michigan?

Yes, misdemeanors can show up on a background check in Michigan. Background checks typically include information about both misdemeanor and felony convictions, as well as arrests and other relevant records.

Recap On Background Check Michigan

In conclusion, understanding background check laws in Michigan is crucial for both employers and individuals alike. 

By familiarizing themselves with the regulations surrounding background checks, employers can ensure they adhere to legal requirements while making informed hiring decisions. 

For individuals, knowing their rights regarding background checks empowers them to protect their privacy and correct any inaccuracies in their records.

Background check sites play a vital role in this process, offering convenient access to public records and helping users gather essential information efficiently. 

Whether you’re an employer seeking to screen potential hires or an individual wanting to verify your own background, utilizing reputable background check sites can provide valuable insights and promote transparency in various aspects of life. 

So, stay informed, stay vigilant, and make use of the resources available to ensure a safer and more reliable environment for all.