When employers order a criminal background check, one of the most common questions is: “How far back do the results go?” The answer depends on several factors, including the FCRA 7-year rule, state restrictions, and the availability of court records. In this blog, we explain what “scope” really means, how long records can be reported, and what employers need to know to stay compliant.

Adverse action is more than just a checkbox — it’s a legal requirement under the FCRA. This blog walks you through the 3 essential steps every employer must follow when background check results impact hiring decisions.