Criminal Background Checks

Protect What Matters Most with Comprehensive Criminal Screening

Thorough Criminal Screening You Can Count On! Whether you're hiring employees or selecting tenants, criminal background checks are one of the most important steps in your decision-making process. Accudata delivers comprehensive, compliant criminal screenings backed by real people who make sure nothing falls through the cracks.

Safety Starts With Informed Decision

Accudata's criminal background checks provide a thorough review of an applicant's criminal history across multiple jurisdictions, giving you the context you need to make sound decisions that help maintain safety in your workplace and community.

FCRA-Compliant and Legally Defensible

Our Criminal Background Checks meet all Fair Credit Reporting Act requirements, protecting you from costly legal challenges. We stay current with evolving EEOC guidelines and state-specific regulations, so you can hire with confidence while remaining compliant.

Comprehensive Coverage You Can Trust

Our Criminal Check Services:

Multi-Jurisdictional Criminal Database Search

Identifies which county records should be reviewed with this powerful primary search that queries over 900 million public records.

State Criminal Records Check

This search accesses a state’s central criminal records repository and may include information on felony and misdemeanor convictions. Each state maintains its own database with varying levels of coverage, reporting standards, turnaround times, and access rules. Availability and completeness depend on the state’s reporting practices.

County Criminal Records Check

A direct search of court records at the county level — considered the most thorough and reliable method for locating criminal history. County searches pull directly from the courthouse where cases are filed and provide the most up-to-date and detailed information available

Sex Offender Registry Check

This search reviews national and state-level sex offender registries to identify individuals listed as registered sex offenders. It is commonly included in background screening for positions involving contact with children, vulnerable populations, or access to residential communities. This check helps organizations meet safety and compliance standards

Who Uses Criminal Background Checks?

Employers

Reduce hiring risk and support workplace safety with criminal history screenings tailored to the role and jurisdiction.

Property Managers

Screen prospective tenants to help protect your properties and your existing residents.

Mortgage Brokers

Meet due diligence requirements with criminal background checks as part of your applicant review process.

Fast Results Without Cutting Corners

Most criminal background checks are completed within 24–48 hours. However, some jurisdictions may take longer due to local processing times or access limitations. Our team is committed to delivering results that are both fast and accurate—so you never have to choose between speed and reliability

✓ Live customer support, speak to a real person, not a chatbot
✓ Industry-leading turnaround times
✓ Rigorous quality controls on every search
✓ Full compliance support and guidance

Criminal Background Check FAQ:

How far back does a criminal background check go?

Most states limit the reporting of criminal convictions to seven years, in line with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). However, some states permit longer reporting periods—especially for roles with higher salary thresholds. At Accudata, we apply the appropriate reporting limitations based on both the applicant’s location and the position’s requirements, ensuring full compliance with federal and state laws.

What’s the difference between a database search and a county search?

A nationwide database search scans aggregated records from multiple jurisdictions, helping to identify potential criminal history quickly. A county criminal search, by contrast, accesses court records directly from the county courthouse, providing the most up-to-date and reliable information. For comprehensive screening, we recommend using both methods together.

Do you check both felonies and misdemeanors?

Yes. Our background checks include both felony and misdemeanor offenses, depending on what is available in each jurisdiction. Keep in mind that reporting practices can vary by court and state.

Can I use a criminal record to automatically disqualify an applicant?

Generally, no. Employers should avoid blanket disqualification policies. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) advises conducting an individualized assessment, considering the nature of the offense, how much time has passed, and how it relates to the role. Many states and cities also have “ban the box” laws that regulate the timing and use of criminal history. Accudata helps ensure your screening process meets all applicable legal requirements.

What if an applicant disputes the results of their background check?

Under the FCRA, applicants have the right to dispute inaccurate or incomplete information in their background report. If a dispute is submitted, Accudata promptly initiates a reinvestigation and provides an updated report if necessary. This ensures compliance and fairness for all parties.

Do I need the applicant’s consent before running a background check?

Yes. Before initiating a background check, you must provide the applicant with a standalone disclosure and obtain their written authorization. This requirement applies to both employment and tenant screenings under the FCRA.

How is tenant criminal screening different from employment screening?

While the core search process is similar, the legal frameworks differ. Employment background checks are governed by EEOC guidelines, including individualized assessments. Tenant screenings must comply with guidance from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which advises against blanket denials based on criminal history due to potential discriminatory impact. Accudata ensures compliance with the appropriate standards based on the screening’s purpose.

What happens if a record appears in a database search but not in a county search?

This is relatively common. Database searches may include outdated or incomplete information. County-level searches are considered the most accurate because they pull directly from court records. If a discrepancy occurs, the county search result takes precedence. For that reason, we recommend using both types of searches together for the most reliable outcome.

How long does a criminal background check take?

Turnaround times vary depending on the type of search. National database searches are typically returned within 24 hours. County-level searches generally take 1–3 business days, though some jurisdictions with manual processes or court delays may take longer. Accudata keeps you informed throughout the process so there are no surprises.

Disclaimer: The content and resources provided on this website are intended for informational and educational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. We recommend consulting qualified legal counsel regarding questions related to your specific operations or compliance with applicable laws.

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