What is an Infomart Background Check and How It Works

Definition & Meaning of Infomart Background Check

An Infomart background check is a thorough assessment service offered by InfoMart, a leading background screening company. This service is designed to help employers evaluate potential candidates by verifying their personal and professional histories. The check encompasses various aspects, including criminal records, employment history, education verification, credit reports, and driving records. By utilizing extensive databases and direct verification methods, InfoMart ensures that the information provided is accurate and complies with legal standards, making it suitable for organizations of all sizes, from small businesses to large corporations.

Key Elements of the Infomart Background Check

The Infomart background check includes several key components that provide a comprehensive view of a candidate's background. These elements typically include:

• Criminal History: This involves searching state, county, federal, and national databases for any arrests, convictions, or pending charges against the candidate.
• Employment Verification: This confirms the candidate's past job titles, dates of employment, and reasons for leaving previous positions.
• Education Verification: This validates the degrees and certifications obtained by the candidate, along with the institutions attended.
• Credit History: This assesses the candidate's financial responsibility by examining credit reports, which is particularly relevant for roles involving financial responsibilities.
• Motor Vehicle Records (MVR): This checks the driving history of candidates for positions that require driving.
• Social Media Screening: This analyzes publicly available content to identify any job-relevant misconduct.
• Watchlist Screening: This scans databases for any associations with terrorists or wanted persons.

How to Obtain the Infomart Background Check

Employers can initiate an Infomart background check through InfoMart's user-friendly platform. The process typically involves the following steps:

• Account Setup: Employers must create an account on InfoMart's platform, often integrating it with existing HR systems for seamless usage.
• Request Submission: Employers submit a request for a background check by providing necessary applicant information such as name, date of birth, and Social Security Number.
• Data Collection: InfoMart collects data from various sources, ensuring a comprehensive assessment.

Steps to Complete the Infomart Background Check

Completing an Infomart background check involves several critical steps:

• Initiation: The employer initiates the check through the InfoMart platform, entering the required applicant information.
• Data Gathering: InfoMart uses the provided information to search various databases and verify details directly with previous employers and educational institutions.
• Reporting: The findings are compiled into a detailed report, highlighting any discrepancies, such as gaps in employment or mismatched job titles.

Legal Use of the Infomart Background Check

Employers must adhere to specific legal guidelines when using an Infomart background check. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) regulates how background checks can be conducted and used. Key legal considerations include:

• Disclosure: Employers must inform candidates that a background check will be conducted and obtain their consent.
• Adverse Action: If a background check leads to a decision not to hire a candidate, employers must provide the candidate with a copy of the report and a summary of their rights.

Who Typically Uses the Infomart Background Check

The Infomart background check is utilized by a diverse range of employers across various industries. Typical users include:

• Corporations: Large companies often conduct background checks to ensure they hire qualified candidates and maintain a safe workplace.
• Small Businesses: Small enterprises use background checks to mitigate hiring risks and protect their reputation.
• Nonprofits: Organizations in the nonprofit sector often perform background checks to ensure the safety of vulnerable populations they serve.

Examples of Using the Infomart Background Check

Employers can apply the Infomart background check in various scenarios, such as:

• Hiring for Sensitive Positions: Positions involving children or vulnerable adults often require extensive background checks to ensure safety.
• Financial Roles: Employers hiring for roles that involve handling money may prioritize credit history checks to assess financial responsibility.
• Compliance Requirements: Certain industries, such as healthcare and finance, may have regulatory requirements mandating background checks.

State-Specific Rules for the Infomart Background Check

Employers must be aware that background check regulations can vary significantly by state. Some states may have specific laws regarding:

• Disclosure Requirements: Some states require additional disclosures beyond federal guidelines.
• Time Limits: Certain states may limit how far back employers can check criminal history.
• Ban the Box Laws: Some jurisdictions have laws preventing employers from asking about criminal history on initial job applications.