How far back do Background Checks go?

Kyra Lane

New member
I’ve been getting mixed answers online and figured I’d ask here. I know it can vary by state or even by the company doing the check but is there a general rule or average? Like I’ve heard the 7-year rule tossed around a lot, is that actually a thing or more of a myth? and does it apply to criminal records, employment history, credit checks or all of them?
 
Generally the 7 year rule applies to background checks for consumer reports under the fcra but there are exceptions. For example if you're applying for a job over $75k, older convictions might show up. Also depends on the state California, for instance, limits reporting of arrests not leading to conviction to 7 years.
 
My background check went back 10 years when I was applying for a government job. I think private companies often stick to 7 years but if it's a security clearance all bets are off.
 
In Texas there’s no state law limiting how far back criminal background checks can go so employers can technically look at your entire adult history.
 
Expungements matter too. Even if something’s technically more than 7 years old, if it wasn’t sealed or expunged, it might still appear.
 
Employment history checks are usually done via resume verification or calls not a formal database. Those go as far back as you list them.
 
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