Background Check in Rhode Island: Screening Laws & More

In Rhode Island, conducting a background check is essential for securing peace of mind. Businesses and individuals alike can benefit from this verification process that spans various sectors.

Understanding the nuances of Rhode Island’s background check procedure can help you navigate legal requirements and make informed decisions. From employment to housing, knowing what to expect can make all the difference. Here’s all the info you’ll need to get started.

What Are the Background Check Laws in Rhode Island?

Rhode Island state laws regulate background checks for employers and landlords. They aim to protect the rights of both parties. Understanding these regulations is crucial for conducting lawful and ethical checks.

Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)

The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) is a federal law. It ensures that consumer reports are handled fairly, accurately, and privately. In the context of employment, employers must adhere to the following FCRA guidelines:

• Obtain Written Consent: Employers must get applicants’ written consent before a background check.
• Pre-Adverse Action Notice: If an employer will act on a background check, they must notify the applicant. This notice informs them of a possible decision. It allows them to dispute the report’s accuracy.
• Dispute Resolution: Applicants can dispute any inaccuracies in the background report. Employers must investigate the claims and send a final notice with their decision after the dispute resolution process.

Rhode Island Enacts Comprehensive Pay Equity Law

Rhode Island has taken a big step toward pay equality. The state enacted a comprehensive Pay Equity Law, which aims to end wage gaps based on protected traits. These attributes include sex, race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, and country of origin.

Key provisions of the Pay Equity Law include:

• Pay Differentials: Employers cannot pay different wages for comparable work due to protected traits.
• Wage Transparency: Employers must provide a wage range for any position upon request, including job postings.
• Employee Protection: Employees have the right to discuss their wages without fear of retaliation.
• Employer Obligations: Employers are required to conduct pay equity audits and take corrective action if disparities are found.

This comprehensive law goes beyond simply restricting wage history inquiries. It mandates proactive steps to ensure equal pay for equal work, fostering a fairer workplace for all employees.

Credit Reports and Employment

Rhode Island employers may request credit reports depending on their reasoning for wanting to know. Credit checks may be permissible for specific job roles that involve handling financial responsibilities, such as positions in finance or accounting. However, even in these cases, employers must comply with FCRA regulations.

Ban-the-Box Law

Rhode Island’s Ban-the-Box law limits employers from asking about an applicant’s criminal history on job applications. This policy gives those with criminal records a fair chance at jobs. It will base hiring on their skills and qualifications, not their past. Employers can inquire about criminal history after the initial interview or when 

Expunged Records

Expunged records are legally sealed and cannot be considered during the hiring process. Employers are prohibited from inquiring about or accessing any information contained within expunged criminal records.

Disclaimer: This info gives a general overview of Rhode Island’s background check laws. Consult a lawyer for advice on your specific situation. Employment and background check regulations can be complex and subject to change.

Local Rhode Island Fair Hiring Laws

Rhode Island has strong fair hiring laws. They protect job applicants and employees from discrimination. However, many cities in the state have stricter hiring laws. This creates a complex regulatory environment for employers. 

Providence, Rhode Island

Providence, Rhode Island, is a prime example of a city with comprehensive fair hiring laws. The city has enhanced Ban-the-Box provisions. It has also expanded protections for LGBTQ+ individuals. Providence mandates reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. The Providence Human Relations Commission (PHRC) is the primary agency responsible for enforcing these regulations. 

How Do I Get a State Background Check in Rhode Island?

Getting a Rhode Island background check is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Gather Required Information

To conduct a background check, collect this info from the person of interest:

• Full name
• Date of birth
• Social Security number
• Address history for the past seven years
• A signed and notarized release form/written consent (required by law)

A photo ID is vital to verify the applicant’s identity for the background report. Acceptable forms of photo identification include a driver’s license, passport, or state-issued ID.

2. Choose the Type of Check

Certain types of roles require different information. You’ll need to determine what you need to know from the background check to proceed. Common screenings include:

• Criminal record checks
• Employment verification
• Education verification
• Driving record checks
• Credit report

3. Fill Out the Form

Download and complete the right background check form from the Rhode Island Attorney General’s website.

4. Get Fingerprints

Remember that national background checks require fingerprints. The applicant must visit a designated site to get their fingerprints taken. The official list of locations is on Rhode Island’s Attorney General website.

5. Submit the Form

Mail or submit the form, fingerprints (if needed), and payment to the right office. Be sure to include any additional documentation or identification required.

What Shows Up on a Rhode Island Background Check?

There are many details that can show up on someone’s background records. Most commonly, the information revealed includes:

Civil Court Searches

Civil court searches reveal lawsuits, judgments, and liens. The search outlines an individual’s legal history and any financial problems. This review won’t return any information about criminal history information.

Education Background

Education background checks confirm a person’s academic credentials. They check degrees and transcripts from any Rhode Island school that the individual attended. It ensures applicants have the required education for the job.

Employment Confirmation

Pre-employment background checks often dig deeper into information about the applicant’s past jobs. Potential employers want to know the positions held, dates, and reasons for leaving. It helps the company to confirm an applicant’s work history and assess their experience.

Drug Testing

Drug tests are a basic screening that checks for illegal drug use, required for certain jobs. Private and public employers may conduct drug tests before they hire or they could randomly test current employees as well.

Criminal Background Checks

Criminal background checks reveal convictions, including felonies and misdemeanors. A criminal report helps assess an applicant’s suitability for positions of trust.

Driving Record Checks

A person’s driving record highlights traffic violations and license suspensions. Employers will request this type of background check for jobs that require driving or operating heavy machinery.

Credit Background Checks

A credit report discloses the credit score, debts, and payment history. An employer will usually need it for positions involving money or sensitive data.

Only the Attorney General’s Office, State Police, and local police can do national background checks. They may do so only for specific and approved purposes. These checks involve fingerprinting. They will include information about arrests in Rhode Island, and federal and out-of-state arrests.

How Far Back Does a Background Check Go in Rhode Island?

The depth of a Rhode Island background check typically depends on the type of information being sought. Generally, background reports cover the past seven years. However, there are exceptions.  

Criminal records can extend beyond the seven-year mark, especially for serious felonies. So, while employers usually focus on the past seven years, they might consider older convictions if they are directly related to the job.

Credit reports normally encompass a seven-year period, but bankruptcies can remain on a report for up to ten years.

Unlike criminal or credit checks, employment and education checks often cover an applicant’s entire work and academic history. This comprehensive review helps employers assess qualifications and experience accurately.

Remember, background checks usually cover seven years. But, some factors and job requirements can affect how deep the check goes.

How Long Does a Background Check Take in Rhode Island?

The time it takes to complete a background check in Rhode Island varies depending on the type of check and the volume of requests. Typically, criminal background checks take between two to five days to process.

However, this timeframe can change. It depends on the complexity of an individual’s criminal history and the efficiency of the involved agencies. Employment verification usually takes one to three days to complete. This timeframe is largely dependent on how quickly previous employers respond to inquiries. Education verification typically requires two to three business days to confirm degrees with the respective educational institutions.

Driving record checks can be obtained within one to two working days. This process involves retrieving information from the DMV or other agencies. Credit checks usually take one to two days. They gather info from consumer reporting agencies.

These are general estimates. Actual processing times may vary.

How Much Does a Background Check in Rhode Island Cost?

Background check cost in Rhode Island depends on the type of check and the provider. Typical costs are as follows:

• Criminal Background Check: $35
• Employment: $15
• Education: $15
• Driving: $20
• Credit: $20-50

You can pay for background checks with a money order for a more secure transaction. Some services accept cash, but it’s better to use traceable payment methods, like a check or money order, for proof of payment.

Where to Get A Background Check in Rhode Island?

You can get background checks through several channels. Each offers different levels of detail and convenience. Here are the main options for obtaining background checks in Rhode Island:

• The Bureau of Criminal Identification checks backgrounds, both state and national. It is part of the Rhode Island Department of the Attorney General. You’ll get access to criminal and public records. Don’t forget the notarized release form from the applicant, as required by federal law.
• Several online screening services offer full background checks. They’re convenient and provide quick access to detailed records.
• Local police departments can provide Rhode Island background check services. They’ll mainly assist with local criminal history. Visit the department’s website or contact them directly for instructions.
• Rhode Island State Police provide state-level background checks. You can request a check at their headquarters. Visit their website for more information and necessary forms.

Best Background Check Sites

Here are some trusted background check sites for easy and quick searches. Each has unique features and benefits.

1. TruthFinder – offers deep info on criminal convictions, contacts, and social media;
2. Instant Checkmate – specializes in criminal background checks; 
3. BeenVerified – offers a variety of background check services, including employment and education verification.

1

TruthFinder

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TruthFinder, founded in 2015 in San Diego, helps users learn about people in their lives. TruthFinder’s founders saw the risks of the growing online world. They aimed to create a safe and reliable people search engine. Today, it is a top choice for those seeking US background info.

Pros

• Comprehensive and detailed reports
• Easy-to-use interface
• Access to public records and social media information (does not disclose social media passwords)

Cons

• A monthly subscription is necessary
• Some information may be too old
• Non-FCRA compliant

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2

Instant Checkmate

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Instant Checkmate prioritizes putting the power of information at your fingertips. Their mission is to give users the best, most detailed background info. This will help them make informed decisions.

Pros

• Detailed criminal records
• User-friendly website
• A mobile app is available

Cons

• A monthly subscription is necessary
• Additional fees charged for some reports
• Non-FCRA compliant

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3

BeenVerified

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BeenVerified offers a platform to access and explore publicly available information on individuals. It aims to give users insights into someone’s background. It may uncover details like contact info, relatives, past addresses, and public records.

Pros

• A wide range of services
• Accurate and reliable information
• A mobile app is available

Cons

• Subscription-based service
• Some reports may take longer to generate
• Non-FCRA compliant

Star Rating

/ 5.0

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Final Note on Background Checks in Rhode Island

If you get a Rhode Island or national background check, all parties must know the relevant laws. Background checks ensure safety and transparency among employers, employees, applicants, tenants, and landlords.

It’s a straightforward process that seems more daunting than it really is from start to finish. If you get all the necessary forms and follow the guidelines, you shouldn’t have any problems.

Disclaimer: Some background check sites are just for personal use and conducting basic people searches. Others, such as those used by potential employers, must comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). This law limits the types of information you can find on other people. If you’re an employer or landlord using a background check for professional purposes, be sure to choose a site that’s FCRA compliant. Using a people search site that doesn’t comply with the FCRA to screen potential tenants, domestic workers or employees is illegal.

The information available on our website may not be 100% accurate, complete, or up to date, so do not use it as a substitute for your own due diligence, especially if you have concerns about a person’s criminal history. The services we mention do not make any representation or warranty about the accuracy of the information available through our website or about the character or integrity of the person about whom you inquire. For more information, please review each service’s Terms of Use.