Background checks for household help

For roles involving children, older relatives or access to your home, many families run a background check. If you use a background check company, federal law sets rules you must follow.

The rules (Fair Credit Reporting Act)

• Tell the candidate in writing, in a standalone document, that you may get a background report, and get their written permission
• If you might decide not to hire based on the report, give them a copy and a summary of their rights first, and a chance to respond
• If you then decide not to hire, send an adverse action notice
• Some states and cities add their own rules

What checks can include

• Identity and address history
• Criminal records, within legal limits
• Sex offender registry
• Driving record, if they'll drive

Not a substitute

A clean check doesn't replace interviews, references and a paid trial.

General information, not legal advice. The FTC publishes guidance for employers using background reports. House Help Crew isn't paid by any agency, marketplace or service mentioned here.