What is what to do when you find a false report on background check?

If you find a false report on a background check, here's what you should do:

1. Obtain a Copy of the Report: Request a complete copy of the background check report from the screening company or the organization that requested it. This is crucial to identify the specific inaccuracies.

2. Review the Report Carefully: Scrutinize every detail, including your personal information, criminal history, employment history, education records, and credit history (if included).

3. Identify the Inaccuracies: Pinpoint each error, whether it's a misspelled name, an incorrect address, a criminal record that doesn't belong to you, or a false employment entry.

4. Gather Supporting Documentation: Collect documents that prove the inaccuracies. This might include your driver's license, social security card, birth certificate, court records demonstrating dismissal or expungement of charges, pay stubs, diplomas, or letters from previous employers.

5. File a Dispute: Contact the background check company that generated the report and formally dispute the inaccurate information. They are legally obligated to investigate your claim. Most companies have online dispute forms or designated contact information for this purpose.

6. Provide Clear and Concise Information: Clearly explain the inaccuracies in your dispute and provide copies (not originals) of your supporting documentation.

7. Follow Up Regularly: Keep track of your dispute and follow up with the background check company to inquire about the progress of the investigation.

8. Understand Your Rights Under the FCRA: The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) grants you certain rights, including the right to dispute inaccurate information and to have it corrected.

9. Consider Legal Action: If the background check company fails to correct the inaccurate information after a reasonable period, or if you have suffered damages as a result of the false report (e.g., denial of employment), consult with an attorney to explore your legal options. You might have grounds to sue for defamation or violation of the FCRA.

10. Notify the Employer (If Applicable): If the background check was for employment purposes, inform the potential employer that you have disputed the inaccurate information and are working to correct it. Provide updates as the investigation progresses. You may also discuss your employment%20rights with a legal professional.

11. Monitor Your Credit Report (If Applicable): If the background check included your credit history, monitor your credit report from all three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) to ensure the inaccurate information isn't impacting your credit%20score.