Universal Background Screening Errors
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Discover why Universal background checks matter. Get help from Consumer Attorneys today!
Explore what appears on Universal background checks and learn how Consumer Attorneys can assist you in disputing errors that may affect your employment and rental opportunities.
Background checks play a crucial role in various sectors, including employment, property rentals, and volunteer work. They are designed to ensure safety and integrity, providing peace of mind for employers and landlords alike. Universal Background Screening is a prominent provider in this space, but unfortunately, even well-established companies can make mistakes.
Imagine investing countless hours into your career, climbing the ladder, only to be held back by a background check report from Universal that contains inaccuracies. It’s disheartening to discover that errors in your report - errors that are completely out of your control - have cost you a life-changing promotion. Sadly, this is not just a hypothetical scenario; it’s the reality for many of our clients who have experienced the frustration and disappointment of being denied opportunities due to inaccuracies in their background checks. You are not alone in this struggle, and there are steps you can take to address these issues.
This article offers an overview of Universal Background Screening, the types of checks they conduct, how they work, and what consumers need to know about their rights. Additionally, we explore what to do if you find Universal background screening errors and who to contact.
Therefore, if you’re questioning if a Universal background screening is legit or what does a Universal background screening check, you should continue reading for additional details!
About Universal Background Screenings
Universal Background Screening is a company that provides background checks for businesses, property owners, and organizations across different sectors. Their services ensure that companies have the necessary information to make informed decisions regarding potential employees, tenants, or partners. Over the years, Universal Background Screening has established itself as a leader in the industry.
How Does Universal Background Screening Conduct Background Checks?
Since Universal uses multiple databases to collect data, sometimes doing so can render incorrect information. When this happens, you should get in contact with Consumer Attorneys immediately.
Universal Background Screening gathers critical information about individuals. These checks may include criminal history, employment verification, credit reports, and other relevant data, depending on the nature of the check. They utilize a variety of databases and can sometimes collect misinformation. When this happens, applicants should contact consumer law attorneys for information regarding how to dispute the errors and hold Universal accountable for their mistakes.
How Long Does a Background Check from Universal Background Screening Take?
If you’re wondering “How long do Universal background screenings take?” you’re not alone!
More detailed or specialized background checks may take longer to complete, especially if they involve verification of international records or education credentials.
The duration of a background check varies based on several factors, including the scope of the check and the complexity of the data. Typically, Universal background screening results are provided within 1-5 business days.
What Information Do Universal Background Screenings Provide in Their Background Checks?
Universal Background Screening delivers detailed reports that offer a wide range of information. The specific data included depends on the type of background check requested. Here are the key areas covered in their background checks.
| Key Background Areas Checked | Information that’s included |
|---|---|
| Criminal Records | Provides a thorough check of national, state, and local criminal databases. |
| Employment Verification | Confirms employment history, job titles, and dates of employment. |
| Education Verification | Verifies the applicant’s educational credentials and degrees earned. |
| Credit History | Reviews credit reports to assess financial responsibility (if relevant). |
| Driving Records | Provides details on the applicant’s driving history, including traffic violations. |
| Drug Testing | Includes results from pre-employment or routine drug screening tests. |
| Professional Licenses | Verifies the validity of any professional licenses held by the applicant. |
| References | Gather feedback from provided personal and professional references. |
| Sex Offender Registry Check | Cross-references applicant information with the national sex offender registry. |
| Social Security Number Trace | Confirms the validity and usage of the Social Security number provided. |
Universal Background Screening Criminal Background Check
Criminal background checks conducted by Universal Background Screening include searches for felony and misdemeanor convictions, pending criminal cases, and sex offender registry status. These checks ensure that organizations can identify any potential red flags that may affect their decision-making process.
Universal Background Screening Background Check for Rental Property
For landlords and property managers, Universal Background Screening provides rental background checks that include credit history, eviction records, and criminal history. These checks help property owners assess whether a potential tenant poses any financial or security risks.
Universal Background Screening Background Check for Employment
Universal background screenings for employment verification typically involve employment history verification, education verification, criminal record checks, and sometimes credit history, depending on the job's requirements.
It’s also during this screening that you may get a request from the company for a Universal background screening drug test. Both drug screenings and employment verification help employers confirm that candidates are truthful about their qualifications and experience.
What Are the Consumers' Rights When Verifying Their Background Check?
The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) protects consumers’ rights by legally requiring accuracy in background checks. Universal and other background check agencies must respect consumers’ rights or face hefty fines and penalties according to federal law!
Consumers have specific rights when it comes to background checks. The FCRA provides guidelines to ensure that individuals have access to their reports and can dispute inaccuracies. Universal Background Screening must comply with these regulations, providing consumers with the following rights:
- The right to know what is in your background check report.
- The right to dispute inaccurate information.
- The right to request corrections if errors are found.
- The right to be notified if a report is used to deny employment, housing, or other services.
Which Companies Use Universal Background Screening for Background Checks?
Universal Background Screening serves a broad range of clients across various industries. Their clients include employers, landlords, property management companies, volunteer organizations, healthcare providers, and educational institutions. Any company or organization that requires accurate background information for decision-making may rely on Universal Background Screening.
What Do Companies Use Universal Background Screening Background Checks For?
Companies use Universal Background Screening background checks for several purposes. The most common uses include:
- Employment screening: Ensuring that job candidates meet the qualifications and have no concerning criminal history.
- Tenant screening: Helping landlords assess a potential tenant’s financial responsibility and rental history.
- Volunteer screening: Ensuring that individuals working with vulnerable populations, such as children or the elderly, have clean records.
- Healthcare and educational screening: Ensuring that professionals in sensitive fields meet licensing and legal requirements.
Can Errors Occur in Background Checks from Universal Background Screening?
Yes, errors can occur in background checks from Universal Background Screening, just like with any other background check provider. These errors can have significant consequences for individuals and businesses alike. It’s important to understand what causes errors and how often they happen.
Errors may also occur depending on how far back a Universal background screening goes. If the screening checks over the last 10 years, you can expect there to be more errors than if the company simply checks the last 12 months.
What Causes Errors in Background Checks?
Errors in background checks can arise from various sources, including:
Data entry mistakes or incorrectly entered information. This can result in inaccurate or incomplete reports. In addition, outdated information is also an issue because databases are not regularly updated which means old or inaccurate information can remain on consumers’ records.
Misidentification occurs when individuals with similar names or personal details have their records mixed up.
Another major issue and one we see quite often occurs when clients have inaccurate criminal records. This means that court records are not accurately reported, or criminal charges have been dismissed but remain in the report.
Main Types of Errors
The most common types of errors in background checks include:
| Common Types of Errors | How they show up |
|---|---|
| Incorrect Criminal History | Someone is wrongly flagged for a crime they did not commit. |
| Inaccurate Employment History | Misreporting of job titles or the duration of employment |
| Incorrect Credit Information | Credit reports containing outdated or incorrect financial details. |
| Wrong Identity Data | Reports that incorrectly match someone to another person’s information. |
How Often Do Errors Occur in Background Checks from Universal Background Screening?
A study conducted by the University of Maryland showed that while Universal Background Screening strives for accuracy, errors can still occur (over 90% of the time) and can have serious consequences for the affected individuals.
What Are the Consequences of Having Errors in Your Background Check Report?
Errors in your background check can have significant repercussions, including:
- Job denials: A false criminal record or inaccurate employment history may lead to rejection by potential employers.
- Rental application rejections: A landlord might refuse to rent to someone based on incorrect credit or rental history information.
- Reputational damage: An incorrect report could damage your reputation in your community or professional circles.
- Financial loss: Missed job opportunities or housing options can result in financial hardships.
You Can Contact Universal Background Screening if You Need to Correct an Error in the Background Report
If you find an error in your background check from Universal Background Screening, you have the right to dispute the information. The first step is to contact Universal Background Screening directly and request a correction. Under the FCRA, they are obligated to investigate your claim and correct any inaccuracies. We recommend disputing through certified mail and not online. Disputing online requires consumers to waive important rights that disputing through certified mail helps to preserve.
What to Do if You Do Not Receive Answers to Your Questions on the Background Report
If Universal Background Screening does not respond to your inquiry or fails to correct the error, you can escalate the issue. You have the right to file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) or take legal action to resolve the dispute.
You Can Sue Universal Background Screening if Your Report Contains Errors
Yes, you can sue if Universal does not correct errors contained in your background screening.
You can sue Universal Background Screening for damages (harm) caused by the incorrect information in your report, including lost wages, housing, or other financial losses.
If Universal Background Screening fails to correct errors in your report or if they do not follow the FCRA’s guidelines, you may have grounds to file a lawsuit.
Who Can You Contact to Solve the Problem with an Error in the Background Report from Universal Background Screening?
In addition to contacting Universal Background Screening directly, you should also seek legal assistance to resolve the issue. Our background check attorneys have extensive knowledge and experience handling cases related to background check errors, and they can help you pursue compensation for any harm caused by the incorrect report.
Assistance in Disputing Universal Background Screening Background Report
If you need help disputing an error in your Universal Background Screening report, you can turn to several resources:
- Consumer attorneys: Hiring an attorney experienced in FCRA violations will help you navigate the dispute process.
- Online resources: The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) offers detailed guides on how to dispute background check errors.
Ensuring that your background check is accurate is crucial, and knowing your rights can help you protect your personal and professional reputation. Universal Background Screening provides valuable services, but errors can occur, and it's important to address them
Lawsuits against Universal Background
Expunged Criminal Record
Universal falsely reported to our client’s prospective employer that she had a criminal record. In truth, the record had been expunged and should not have been included in the report at all. This gross inaccuracy by Universal not only harmed our client but also directly resulted in her losing a job opportunity. After reviewing the erroneous background report, her prospective employer denied her application, costing her a well-paying position, valuable benefits, and other economic opportunities. Additionally, our client experienced significant emotional distress, lost valuable time, and missed out on future career advancements and opportunities as a result of this mistake. She reached out to us in need of assistance, and we helped her hold Universal accountable by securing a sizable settlement on her behalf!
Vacated and Overturned
Our client contacted us after Universal incorrectly reported him as a convicted first-degree rapist and felon. In truth, his conviction had been vacated nearly a decade ago. Universal's report was inaccurate, misleading, and incomplete. This error cost our client a well-paying job after the employer denied his application based on the flawed background check.
Moreover, Universal failed to provide a pre-adverse action report before sharing this erroneous information, violating the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). Our client suffered significant consequences, including job loss, psychological damage, anxiety, and humiliation. We fought for his rights and successfully secured a settlement with Universal on his behalf. We’re confident we can achieve similar results for you.
Consumer Attorneys – We Fight for You!
If you have questions, need to dispute errors on your Universal background report, wish to file a lawsuit, or seek legal support, we’re here to help!
We look forward to partnering with you!
Frequently Asked Questions
Universal Background Screenings provide a comprehensive report that can include criminal history, employment verification, education history, credit reports (if relevant to the job), and driving records. It may also include drug test results, identity verification, and professional license checks, depending on the role. Employers request specific components tailored to their industry needs, so not every report includes all of these. Criminal records searches cover federal, state, and county databases, while employment and education checks verify the candidate’s claims. If the job involves financial responsibilities, credit checks may reveal debt or payment history. Universal Background Screening ensures employers receive accurate, detailed information to make informed hiring decisions.
Yes, Universal Background Screening is a legitimate and trusted provider of background checks. The company is said to be accredited by the Professional Background Screening Association (PBSA), and claims to follow the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), which regulates how background checks are conducted and ensures consumer protections. Universal Background Screening serves businesses across multiple industries, including healthcare, finance, and retail, providing employers with detailed reports. The company's longevity makes it a top choice for background checks but errors occur - often. If an applicant finds inaccurate information on their report, they have the right to dispute it and file a lawsuit when needed.
Yes, Universal Background Screening often contacts previous employers as part of the employment verification process. This step helps to ensure that the candidate’s job titles, dates of employment, and responsibilities align with what they provided on their application or resume. Some employers may respond via email or automated systems, but direct phone calls are still common to confirm details or clarify discrepancies. However, not all background screenings require employer contact - it depends on what the hiring company requests. The process is conducted professionally and discreetly, without sharing unnecessary details that could jeopardize the candidate’s current employment. This verification helps employers make informed decisions based on accurate work history.
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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