InCheck Background Check Inaccuracies

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30 Sep, 2024
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Who keeps InCheck background services in check? You can! If InCheck made a mistake, you have rights. Take action today.

An InCheck background check error can cost you a job, income, or career. Don’t let InCheck’s inaccuracies hold you back. Learn what can go wrong, how to fix it, and who can help.

You’ve applied for a job and gone through the interview process, and things seem to be going well. So well that they are taking the next step in the hiring process - the background check. But suddenly, you’re hit with an email or a call: “We regret to inform you that we cannot proceed with your application due to findings in your background check.” Your heart sinks. A wave of disappointment, anger, embarrassment, sadness, and confusion overwhelms you. The background check lawyers at Consumer Attorneys know how hard this hits clients.

What went wrong? What are these “findings” in my background check? More importantly, how can I fix it?

If your job hopes were crushed because of an error in an InCheck background check, you’re not alone. Many people face this frustrating situation. Background check errors can feel like an unfair barrier standing between you and a better future. So, what do you do when the report contains false or outdated information that paints an inaccurate picture of you?

In this article, we’ll explore what an InCheck background check entails, how long it takes, common problems that can derail your application, and—most importantly—what you can do to fight back with the help of a background check lawyer. Let’s dive in and keep your hopes alive.

What Is an InCheck Background Check?

InCheck is a company that provides employment background checks for businesses looking to vet potential hires. Like many other background check services, it promises to deliver accurate, reliable information to help employers make informed decisions. But while the intent is good, errors can—and do—happen.

What Does an InCheck Background Check Look For?

An InCheck background check typically searches for information that could influence an employer’s decision to hire you. This may include:

  • Criminal history (including arrests, convictions, and charges)
  • Credit reports
  • Employment verification (confirming past employers and dates of employment)
  • Education verification
  • Driving records
  • Drug testing results
  • Professional licenses or certifications

Employers use this information to assess whether you’re a trustworthy, responsible candidate. But sometimes, the data they receive is incorrect, incomplete, or outdated. That’s where the real trouble starts.

How Long Does an InCheck Background Check Take?

The time it takes to complete an InCheck background check can vary. Some checks might take a few days, while others could stretch to a week or more, depending on how many details they need to verify and how many states’ criminal databases they need to check. So, if you’ve been waiting anxiously and wondering, “How long does an InCheck background check take?” it’s not uncommon for it to take up to 10 business days or longer in certain situations.

While waiting, you might also repeatedly refresh your inbox or check the InCheck background check status on the company's portal. It’s a nerve-wracking process - because your future depends on the background check results. The uncertainty can add to your stress, especially if you’ve had issues with background checks in the past.

Common Problems with Background Checks and Their Impact on Your Future

Errors in background checks can have devastating consequences, especially if the mistake costs you a job opportunity. Here’s a look at some common issues that can arise during an InCheck background check and how they can derail your career plans:

ProblemExamplesExplanation
1. Mismatched IdentitySomeone with a similar name or date of birth has a criminal record or poor credit that shows up on your background check.A clerical error may reflect someone else’s negative history in your report, causing immediate rejection if the employer doesn’t give you a chance to explain.
2. Outdated InformationPast convictions that have been expunged or sealed, but still appear on your background check.Employers should not consider outdated records, but if these show up, they can unfairly ruin your job prospects.
3. Inaccurate Criminal HistoryCharges for which you were acquitted or minor misdemeanors appearing in the report.Employers may interpret any criminal record as a red flag, even if it’s not relevant or you were found innocent. This can unfairly cost you a job opportunity.
4. Misreported Employment HistoryIncorrect start dates or a mischaracterized job title from a previous employer.Errors in employment history can make it look like you’re being dishonest, which could result in a rejected application, even when the mistake isn’t your fault.
5. Errors in Education VerificationA degree or credential is incorrectly reported as incomplete or missing.In industries requiring degrees or certifications, a misreported education record can make it seem like you lied, harming your chances of getting hired.
6. Inaccurate Credit ReportsA credit report shows settled debts as unpaid or reflects a low score based on incorrect data.A poor credit report, even if it contains errors, can be a dealbreaker in certain roles, like financial positions.
7. AnythingAny misspelling or inaccuracy.If an employer thinks you were dishonest or wrong about something—even a small error—they might disqualify you. Any mistake in the report can be problematic for your future.

The Impact of These Errors

A mistake on your background check can mean the difference between landing your dream job and watching it slip away. It can feel deeply unfair, especially if you’ve worked hard to clear your name or overcome past challenges. Worse, these errors can leave you feeling powerless—like your entire future is at the mercy of a flawed system.

But don’t lose hope. You can take steps to correct these mistakes and restore your chances.

What Can You Do About Background Check Errors?

When your InCheck background check contains inaccurate or harmful information, it’s easy to feel like the deck is stacked against you. But you don’t have to accept the situation as-is. You have rights under the law that protect you from wrongful denials of employment based on false information.

Here’s what you can do:

1. Request a Copy of Your Background Check

Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), you can request a copy of the background check report that InCheck provided to your employer. This is crucial because you can’t fix a problem unless you know exactly what’s wrong. Once you have the report in hand, you can review it for errors, outdated information, or inaccuracies.

2. Work with a Background Check Lawyer

Correcting background check errors can be overwhelming, especially when you’re up against large corporations. This is where Consumer Attorneys comes in. A skilled background check lawyer can guide you through the dispute process, ensure your rights are protected, and help you resolve the situation more quickly.

3. Dispute the Errors with InCheck

If you find inaccuracies, the next step is to file a dispute directly with InCheck. There are several ways to do this, but you should do it in writing via certified U.S. Mail. Otherwise, you may lose your right to file a lawsuit. The company must investigate your claim and correct any errors they find. This process might take time, but it’s essential for clearing up your record. Be sure to provide any documentation supporting your case—such as court records, letters from past employers, or proof that debts were paid. 

4. Inform the Employer of the Dispute

While InCheck is investigating your dispute, informing the employer that you’re working on correcting the errors is a good idea. This may buy you some time and show that you’re proactive in clearing up the issue. Some employers are willing to pause their decision-making process while a dispute is in progress, especially if the mistake is glaringly obvious.

5. File a Lawsuit

If InCheck doesn’t fix the errors or if the employer refuses to reconsider, you may have grounds to file a lawsuit under the FCRA. An attorney can help you hold InCheck accountable for reporting inaccurate information and possibly even recover damages for any lost wages or emotional distress caused by the error.

The Role of Consumer Attorneys in Protecting Your Rights

Dealing with a faulty background check is stressful enough. Trying to navigate the legal system on top of it can feel impossible. That’s why having a trustworthy lawyer on your side is so valuable.

These legal professionals know the ins and outs of the FCRA and can ensure that your rights are fully enforced. If you’ve been unfairly denied a job due to a mistake on your InCheck background check, an attorney can:

  • Help you dispute the error and ensure it’s corrected.
  • Communicate with InCheck and the employer on your behalf.
  • Advise you on whether you have grounds for a lawsuit.
  • Represent you in court if necessary.

Working with a background check lawyer can significantly increase your chances of getting the error fixed quickly, giving you the best possible chance to save your job opportunity.

Take Action—Don’t Let an Error Define Your Future

Being rejected for a job because of a flawed background check is frustrating, but it’s not the end of the road. Remember, you have rights and don’t have to accept an inaccurate report as your fate.

If you’ve experienced issues with your InCheck background check status, facing errors or delays, or are worried about how long the process will take, don’t hesitate to seek help. Contact the consumer attorneys at Consumer Attorneys to review your case and provide the legal guidance you need. They can help you challenge wrongful denials and ensure you aren’t unjustly held back from your career goals.

With the right support, you can get your background check fixed, regain your confidence, and pursue the future you deserve.

Taking control of your background check is crucial for securing employment and protecting your rights. Contact a background check lawyer today to ensure that inaccuracies don’t stand in the way of your dreams.

Frequently Asked Questions

A pending background check means the screening process isn’t complete yet. It’s still being reviewed, which can take time depending on what’s being checked—like your criminal history, employment, or education. This waiting period can feel stressful, especially if you’re anxious to start a new job. But try not to worry too much! Delays can happen for many reasons, including slow responses from third parties. If the background check is still pending after several days, following up is okay. Remember, errors can happen in background checks, so it’s important to stay on top of things. If a mistake comes up, an attorney can help correct it.

Yes, absolutely! It’s perfectly fine to ask about the status of your background check, and employers expect this question. If you’ve been waiting longer than expected or are feeling uneasy, contact the employer or background check company politely. They might provide an update or explain any delays. The waiting process can feel stressful, but checking in can give you peace of mind. Plus, it shows you’re proactive about your future, care about the job, want to get hired, and want to work. If something feels off, like unexpected delays, a consumer attorney can help investigate any issues and protect your rights.

If you haven’t heard back after a background check, don’t panic. Delays can happen for multiple reasons - technical issues, slow responses from third parties, or backlogs. Start by following up with the employer to ask if they’ve received the report. If they’re still waiting on it, you can also reach out to the background check company directly. If weeks go by without any response, you may have grounds to raise concerns. At this point, it’s a good idea to consult a consumer attorney. They can step in to make sure your rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) are protected and help get answers.

No, background checks can vary depending on the employer’s needs and the job you’re applying for. While some checks focus on criminal history, others might include credit reports, employment history, or education verification. For example, jobs in finance may look more closely at your credit history, while driving records might be reviewed for positions that involve operating vehicles. It’s important to know what an employer is checking, especially since mistakes can occur in any part of the process. If a background check error arises, it’s crucial to correct it quickly. A consumer attorney can help you dispute inaccuracies and protect your chances of getting hired.

imageDaniel Cohen is the Founding Partner of Consumer Attorneys
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Daniel Cohen is the Founder of Consumer Attorneys. Daniel manages the firm’s branding, marketing, client intake and business development efforts. Since 2017, he is a member of the National Association of Consumer Advocates and the National Consumer Law Center. Mr. Cohen is a nationally-recognized practitioner of consumer protection law. He has a we... Read more

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