Starbucks Background Checks: Hiring Guide & FAQs

Founded in 1971 in Seattle's Pike Place Market, Starbucks has grown into the world's premier coffeehouse company, guided by a company mission to "inspire and nurture the human spirit – one person, one cup and one neighborhood at a time." What began as a single store selling coffee beans has evolved into a global network of over 40,000 stores in 88 markets, serving more than 100 million customers weekly.

Starbucks has expanded into premium teas through Teavana, ready-to-drink beverages, food offerings, and innovative store formats, including Reserve Roasteries. Its community stores have a new store model introduced in 2011, intended to reflect the character of the specific neighborhood in which they’re introduced. These stores also partner with organizations that serve disadvantaged communities.

Starbucks calls its employees "partners" and backs this philosophy with comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, stock options, and free college tuition through Arizona State University Online. The company culture is intended to evoke a “third place,” a space between home and work where people feel they belong, as founder ​​Howard Schultz had in mind. Its recognition supports this approach: Starbucks ranks #29 on Fortune's World's Most Admired Companies and has historically been recognized for its comprehensive benefits and career advancement opportunities.

Yes. After extending a conditional job offer, a store like Starbucks can request a background check from a third-party consumer reporting agency (CRA). This screening helps the company verify information and maintain a safe workplace environment for partners and customers alike.

The majority of employment background checks, including those conducted for positions like those at Starbucks, are typically completed within three to five business days, though timing depends on the specific screenings ordered and availability of records. Automated database searches often finish within hours, while searches requiring manual courthouse retrieval or additional verification may extend beyond a week. See Checkr's comprehensive guide to background check turnaround times for detailed information.

A background check report for employers like Starbucks may include:

Background check lookback periods vary by state law, position level, and the data sources that are available to the CRA performing the check. Many employers typically focus on the past seven years for most convictions, and likewise, the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) limits the information that can be reported on background checks after seven years. Certain roles (such as management positions or those involving financial responsibilities) may require more comprehensive review. Candidates should research state fair chance or Ban the Box laws to understand local limitations and protections for background checks.

The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) is a federal law that governs how employers may consider and use the information in background checks for employment decisions. It requires employers to obtain written consent from a candidate before running a background check. Employers must also provide a copy of the report, along with a pre-adverse action notice, if they may take negative action, such as choosing not to move forward with the interview process. Allow a reasonable time for the candidate to dispute errors or inaccuracies that may have been recorded on the background check.

Running a background check on yourself with Checkr allows you to preview what a store like Starbucks may see on a report. It can also help you identify potential inaccuracies before they affect your application. In one secure, comprehensive report you can review:

Create your report in minutes with Checkr’s personal background checks. To show your verified credentials proactively, build a free Checkr Profile you can share with recruiters, hiring managers, or potential employers. While a profile doesn’t replace a background check performed by employers, it’s a good starting point to understand your own record and begin conversations with a potential employer if needed.

Check your report status anytime in the Candidate Portal. You can also visit the Checkr Help Center for comprehensive FAQs, step-by-step dispute instructions, and direct access to customer support.

The resources and information provided here are for educational and informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Always consult your own counsel for up-to-date legal advice and guidance related to your practices, needs, and compliance with applicable laws.