Skip to the main content.
New! Continuous MVR monitoring
Driving record monitoring

Ongoing monitoring of driving records can help employers avoid risk and improve driver safety. Learn about the benefits of adding Verified Credentials' newest solution to your screening strategy.

Read the blog ›

Featured resource

Industry-Trends-Report-01

Learn the latest trends in employment background checks. This report uses real-life usage data to uncover how employers are screening across industries.

Download the full report ›

Verified Credentials is a leading background screening company. Since 1984, we’ve helped validate and secure relationships through the use of our comprehensive screening solutions. We offer a wide variety of background checks, verifications, and innovative screening tools.

Get to know us ›

Accredited background screening solutions

Logo-PBSA-Accreditation-120x98

Our accreditation confirms that our policies, processes, and employee training meet rigorous industry compliance standards.

Learn about our solutions ›

1 min read

Why Accurate Information Matters for Background Checks

When it comes to background checks, providing accurate and complete information to your screening partner is essential to help you make the best hiring decisions possible. You may be able to avoid unintentionally missing out on crucial screening results by thoroughly reviewing all the information you are entering when placing an order. Let’s take a look at some of the common issues we see in the background check process and dive deeper into the impact of supplying accurate information.

 

Common issues

There are four common sources of identifying information that, if not entered correctly, may impact an order:

  • Date of birth: Differences in a date of birth. For example, 01/09/1987 vs. 01/08/1987.
  • Name: Misspelling a name. For instance, Julianne Smith vs. Julianna Smith.
  • Missing address or work information: Missing or inaccurate employment history or address information.
  • Social Security Number: Incorrectly entered SSN.

Entering information that contains even minor inconsistencies can sometimes significantly affect results and may lead to uninformed hiring decisions. These inconsistencies can be avoided by double checking the information you provide your screening partner; especially names, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers. Matching the information provided against a driver’s license or other government-issued identification can also help avoid the common issues above.

 

The importance of AKA names and middle names

AKA names, or “also known as” names, can make all the difference in finding important records that might otherwise be missed. It is important to note that some records may only be filed under an AKA name, rather than the primary name. Searching both names can increase the chances of finding all relevant records. Additionally, including a middle name can further narrow down search results, particularly when searching for common names.

Simply put, providing your screening partner with a middle name and an AKA name, if known, can help ensure that no stones are left unturned.

Illinois Becomes the Second State to Enact Broader Regulations on AI

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker signed House Bill 3773 into law on August 9, 2024, expanding the state’s regulations on the use of artificial...

Read More

Montana’s 2024 Consumer Data Privacy Act

Montana has joined the growing list of consumer data privacy laws enacted throughout the country, creating new guidelines for consumer data privacy. ...

Read More

New Background Check Requirements for Health Professionals in New Jersey

Signed into law on September 12, 2024, New Jersey enacted a new background check bill that mandates criminal history background checks for a broader...

Read More

1 min read

New Background Check Requirements for Health Professionals in New Jersey

Signed into law on September 12, 2024, New Jersey enacted a new background check bill that mandates criminal history background checks for a broader...

Read More

Iowa Cracks Down on Health Care Facility Violations

The U.S. healthcare industry is one of the most heavily regulated sectors in the country. It’s for good reason—the work can mean the difference...

Read More

Montana’s 2024 Consumer Data Privacy Act

Montana has joined the growing list of consumer data privacy laws enacted throughout the country, creating new guidelines for consumer data privacy. ...

Read More