Guide to Michigan Background Checks

A background check in Michigan searches a wide variety of databases and public records to verify information about an individual. Background checks are commonly used by employers to learn more about a candidate’s history, beyond a job application or resume. Michigan background checks may search criminal records and other court records, credit reports, and motor vehicle records (MVRs). They may also be used to verify a candidate’s education and employment history.

The scope of a Michigan background check varies widely, depending on the specific needs of an employer or other requesting party. For example, an employer might check a candidate’s driving history if the role involves operating a company vehicle, or they might run a credit check for a finance-related position. Landlords may also choose to run background checks to screen tenants, and Michigan businesses sometimes use background checks to comply with regulations or specific background check policies.

Turnaround times for Michigan background checks depend on the scope of the search, whether the records are digitized, and who is performing the search. When public records are available digitally, a background check can often be completed within a day. However, when the screening entails an in-person visit or written record request, it may take weeks.

Working with a background check provider, like Checkr, often speeds up turnaround times compared to a DIY approach. Checkr’s advanced technology helps to swiftly gather and sort data from thousands of databases and record sources.

Michigan background checks can be conducted using a self-service approach or with the help of a background check provider.

Michigan employers have the option to perform background checks themselves or partner with a trusted consumer reporting agency (CRA), like Checkr. Performing background checks in-house is often a tedious process for employers. Record requests generally need to be made online, in person, or by mail from law enforcement agencies, courthouses, or past employers. Ordering is usually on an individual basis, so employers cannot typically batch together multiple candidate checks at once.

Manual processes may result in costly errors, wasted staff time, and potential compliance issues, especially if the information returned isn’t up to date. For example, employers that want to run a Michigan criminal background check may use the Michigan State Police’s Internet Criminal History Access Tool (ICHAT) to search public criminal records for misdemeanor convictions, felony arrests, and other convictions. However, the records on the site are name-based only, meaning they may not belong to the applicant in question or could be incomplete or outdated.

Employers that choose to partner with a CRA, like Checkr, benefit from the single-source convenience of various checks, like criminal history, civil records, credit history, and MVR. This streamlined approach often results in quicker turnaround times and more accurate results.

Individuals can run a background check on themselves to stay informed about what’s available on their own public record or to screen others. Conducting a personal background check allows the individual to see what employers and landlords might see to anticipate questions and correct potential inaccuracies to be reflected on their Checkr report. Common scenarios for screening someone else for employment often include nannies, housesitters, tutors, and contractors.

To conduct a personal background check, individuals can follow a similar process as employers, ordering reports manually online, by phone, in person, or through the mail. Or you can use a background check service provider that offers personal checks, like Checkr.

Both companies and individuals who partner with a consumer reporting agency (CRA) to conduct background checks for employment decisions must comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). This includes companies performing employment background checks for candidates and individuals running background checks for personal hiring, such as employing nannies or contractors. The FCRA requires employers to notify a candidate if they choose not to hire the candidate based on information reported in their background check.

Checkr offers fast, smooth background checks for businesses. Our streamlined experience and automated workflows reduce manual work. Plus, we offer a user-friendly candidate experience and 100+ software integrations for businesses that connect with the HR applications you use every day.

Michigan employers that choose Checkr can hire with more confidence. Regulatory compliance tools are built into our products and workflows, and FCRA-trained experts are available to assist you and your candidates. Get started today.

Personal Michigan background checks help individuals understand what potential employers or landlords may see. Once you’ve viewed your records, you can dispute potential inaccuracies to be reflected on your Checkr report before you apply for jobs. This may also prepare you to have conversations with employers if needed. Order online today.

About the author

Sarah writes about small business topics and corporate communications. She has written on a wide range of topics, including background checks, hiring trends, company culture, and employee training and development. Her work includes educational articles, press releases, newsletters, and employee onboarding collateral.