How Far Back Do Background Checks Go?

It isn’t easy to tell how far back background check services usually go as there are a lot of variables to consider. Each piece of information you find through a background check service potentially has an expiration date. These can be different depending on the type of check you perform and which state’s records you’re accessing.

For example, if you’re running a background check on someone’s criminal history then your results can vary dramatically. Misdemeanors can stay on record for anywhere between five to ten years, while felonies can stay on record for seven to ten years or sometimes even indefinitely. This all depends on which state the records come from, as each one has different laws. Due to FCRA regulations some things have set limits regardless of state laws, so you won’t be able to find out bankruptcies from beyond the past decade. Similarly, civil suits, judgments, and arrest records can’t be reported on for more than seven years.

However, on occasion you won’t have any time restrictions in your results. If you’re running a background check that looks at past education or employment then you’ll be able to view someone’s entire history.

The Best Background Check Services of 2023

Rank	Company	Info	Visit
1		Quality of reports Fast searches Ease of use Dark web monitoring Review:	Visit Truthfinder17% Discount
2		Wide variety of information Reverse phone lookup Financial data included No cancellation fees Review:	Visit Instant Checkmate
3		User-friendly layout Organized reports Versatile search options Criminal and financial records Review:	Visit Intelius

More FAQs

• Can Background Checks Be Done on Minors?
• Do I Need Permission To Run a Background Check on Someone Else?
• Does a Background Check Include a Credit Report?
• Does a Background Check Include a Driving Record?
• Does a Background Check Include a Drug Test?
• Does a Background Check Include Tax Records?
• Does a Background Check Reveal Immigration Status?
• How Can I Do a Background Check?
• How Can I Remove My Name From Background Check Websites?
• How Far Back Do Background Checks Go?
• How Long Does a Background Check Take?
• How Much Does a Background Check Cost?
• Is a Background Check Legal?
• What Information Does a Background Check Show?
• What Is a Background Check?
• Will a Background Check Show My Employment History?