What to Do If Your Background Check Is Incorrect
Finding errors on a background check can be stressful and confusing, especially if you're in the middle of a job application. The good news is that federal law gives you the right to demand accuracy — and you don’t have to accept incorrect information.
Why Background Checks Get It Wrong
Background checks pull data from many different places. One mistake in any of those systems can end up in your report. Some of the most common issues include:
Records that were never updated after a court decision
Someone else’s information mixed into your profile
Incorrect dates or case numbers
Old data from third-party databases that never gets refreshed
Errors in employment or education verification
Every screening company works differently, but none are perfect — which is why the law gives you tools to fix these issues.
Your Rights When a Background Check Is Wrong
Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), background check companies must make sure the information they report is:
correct,
tied to the right person, and
current.
If something is wrong, they are required to investigate and correct it for free. If the mistake costs you a job or delay, the company may also owe you monetary compensation.
Steps to Take When You Find an Error
Here’s the most effective way to respond:
Get the full report directly from the background check company.
Highlight every item that’s wrong — even minor details.
Collect documents proving what’s correct (ID, dismissal orders, employer letters, etc.).
Submit a written dispute explaining the mistake and attaching proof.
Follow up with the employer to make sure they know the report is under dispute.
Talk to an attorney if the error isn’t fixed quickly or if it cost you a job opportunity.
A single incorrect item can legally be enough for a claim.
How We Help
We assist consumers when background check companies refuse to fix errors or report false information. If the mistake affected your job search, we can pursue compensation under the FCRA.