Have you ever wondered what a Level 1 background check is? Well, if you’re applying for a job or trying to rent a property, there’s a high chance that you’ll encounter a Sterling background check. Level 1 is the most basic type of background check offered by Sterling, and it’s commonly used to verify an individual’s identity and criminal history. While it’s not the most comprehensive check available, it’s still an essential tool for employers and landlords to assess the potential risks associated with a candidate.
The Sterling Level 1 background check typically includes a Social Security Number (SSN) verification, which validates the SSN provided by the applicant and checks for any inconsistencies with the person’s name or address. Additionally, it may include a national criminal record search that examines the offender databases maintained by the Department of Justice and FBI. In some cases, the check may also include a county-level criminal record search, where a more detailed investigation is performed at the county level to cross-check for any criminal records that may have been missed during the national search.
It’s important to note that Level 1 background checks are not foolproof, and some information may be left undiscovered. While it serves as an excellent screening tool, it’s not comprehensive enough to provide a complete picture of an individual’s history and character. However, for most employers and landlords, a Level 1 background check provides a sufficient level of checks and balances for them to make informed hiring or rental decisions.
Understanding Sterling Background Checks
If you’re applying for a job, it’s likely that your potential employer will require a background check. A background check is a process where an employer investigates your past history to verify that you’re who you say you are and ensure your qualifications align with the position. Sterling is one of the most popular background check companies today, with over 25 years of experience in the industry. Here, we’ll discuss what level 1 means on a Sterling background check.
Level 1 Sterling Background Check
- A level 1 Sterling background check is the most basic level of screening the company offers. It’s typically used for entry-level positions or jobs that don’t require significant responsibilities.
- The following are some of the elements that a level 1 background check will investigate:
- Employment history
- Criminal record check
- Education verification
- Sterling does not conduct credit checks as part of its level 1 background check, as it’s not required by law.
- The cost of a level 1 background check from Sterling varies depending on the client’s needs and the size of the company.
Why are background checks important?
Employers perform background checks to verify the claims on your resume and ensure that the person they’re considering hiring will be a good fit for their company culture. A background check helps employers avoid hiring individuals with a criminal background that may pose a risk to the company and other employees. It also identifies individuals who may have lied on their resume or have a history of misconduct in the workplace.
The Bottom Line
A level 1 Sterling background check is the most basic screening used to ensure that the individual is a good fit for entry-level positions or jobs that don’t require significant responsibilities. It investigates the individual’s employment history, criminal background, and education. Employers perform background checks to verify the claim on resumes and avoid hiring individuals who may pose a risk to the company and other employees. By understanding the level of Sterling background checks, you can better prepare yourself and avoid any surprises during the screening process.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Basic screening of employment history, criminal record, and education checks. | May not provide a complete picture of an individual’s suitability for a job. |
| Affordable option for businesses | May not include credit checks if required for the position. |
| Quick screening process. | May not provide enough information to make a sound hiring decision. |
Overall, a level 1 Sterling background check is a helpful screening tool for entry-level positions and jobs that don’t require significant responsibilities.
Levels of Sterling Background Checks
Sterling is a leading provider of background screening services to employers and organizations. There are different levels of Sterling background checks that employers can choose from depending on their needs and the job requirements.
Level 1 Background Check
- Identity verification
- Criminal record search
- National sex offender registry search
Level 1 background check is the most basic level of screening offered by Sterling. It includes the verification of the candidate’s identity, a search for criminal records at the county and federal level, and a national sex offender registry search. The purpose of Level 1 check is to rule out any red flags and ensure that the candidate meets the basic eligibility criteria for the job.
Level 2 Background Check
Level 2 background check is a more comprehensive screening process that includes additional checks beyond what is included in the Level 1 check. Some of the additional checks included in Level 2 check are:
- Employment history verification
- Education verification
- Professional license verification
- Reference checks
- Credit history check
| Check | Description |
|---|---|
| Employment history verification | Verifies the candidate’s previous employment history, including job responsibilities and performance |
| Education verification | Verifies the candidate’s educational qualifications, including degrees, certificates, and transcripts |
| Professional license verification | Verifies the candidate’s professional licenses, certifications, and registrations |
| Reference checks | Collects feedback from the candidate’s references about their job performance, reliability, and work ethic |
| Credit history check | Reviews the candidate’s credit history to assess their financial stability and responsibility |
The purpose of the Level 2 check is to provide a more comprehensive view of the candidate’s work history, qualifications, and reliability. This information is particularly important for positions of trust, financial responsibility, or with access to sensitive data.
Level 3 & Beyond Background Check
For senior executive roles, positions of high public trust, or highly sensitive industry roles, Sterling offers a Level 3 check and beyond. These checks can include in-depth financial reviews, global sanctions checks, security clearance checks, and more. The purpose of these checks is to provide organizations with the highest level of assurance possible about the candidate’s trustworthiness, reliability, and qualification for the role.
Overall, Sterling background checks provide organizations with reliable and accurate information about the candidate, enabling them to make better-informed hiring decisions and ultimately reducing the risk of hiring mistakes.
Purpose of Sterling Background Checks
Sterling Background Checks serve as a vital tool for ensuring that companies only hire trustworthy and capable employees. These checks are designed to provide a detailed and accurate report of a candidate’s past criminal, employment, and educational history. The process involves a thorough investigation of the candidate’s background to ensure that they meet the criteria necessary to perform the job effectively and without any concerns of illegal activities or potential risks to the company.
What Does Level 1 Mean on a Sterling Background Check?
- Level 1 is the most basic level of Sterling Background Check.
- It is usually requested as part of the pre-employment process by employers.
- This level usually includes a criminal records check through a county-level court search and a national sex offender registry search.
How Is Sterling Background Check Conducted?
The first step of the Sterling Background Check involves gathering information from the candidate, including their social security number, name, and birth date. Once this information is gathered, Sterling will initiate the background check, which involves checking various databases to determine whether the candidate has a criminal record or any other red flags that would indicate a concern.
To ensure accuracy, Sterling utilizes a team of experienced professionals to collect and analyze data from different sources, including court records, police reports, educational institutions, and previous employers. Sterling carefully reviews the gathered information to ensure its validity, accuracy, and consistency before issuing a final report to the employer.
Sterling Background Check Level 1 Table
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| County Criminal Records Search | Searches at the county level to determine if the candidate has any criminal records in that specific county. |
| National Sex Offender Registry Search | Checks the national database of sex offenders to determine if the candidate is a registered sex offender. |
Overall, a Sterling Background Check helps employers evaluate the candidates’ integrity and determine their level of risk when it comes to hiring them. Sterling’s comprehensive background check process provides employers with peace of mind and the confidence to hire employees whom they can trust to work for their organization.
Sterling Background Checks and Employment Screening
Sterling Background Checks is a trusted provider of employee screening services, including background checks, drug testing, and fingerprinting. One of the critical components of any background check is assessing a candidate’s criminal record. In Sterling’s system, this is indicated by “levels”.
- Level 1: The lowest level of a Sterling background check, Level 1 only includes a search of a candidate’s name and Social Security number against national and county criminal databases. This level of screening may be appropriate for low-risk positions, such as administrative or entry-level roles.
- Level 2: A more thorough search, Level 2 screening includes Level 1 checks as well as an investigation into the candidate’s past employment and education history. This level may be appropriate for higher-risk positions or for companies operating in industries such as finance or healthcare.
- Level 3: Level 3 checks are the most extensive offered by Sterling and include everything from Levels 1 and 2, as well as a review of the candidate’s credit history, motor vehicle record, and drug testing. These checks may be appropriate for sensitive positions such as C-suite executives or government officials.
It’s important for companies to carefully consider which level of screening is appropriate for each position to ensure that they are making informed hiring decisions. Sterling’s experienced team can help guide you through the process and advise on best practices for your industry.
Overall, background checks are a crucial component of any employment screening process. By selecting the appropriate level of screening, employers can help ensure that they are creating a safe and productive work environment for all employees.
Summary
Sterling Background Checks offer three different levels of screening, each with varying degrees of investigation into a candidate’s criminal history, employment and education history, credit history, motor vehicle record, and drug testing. Selecting the right level of screening for each position is important for companies in creating a safe and productive work environment.
| Level | What’s Included: |
|---|---|
| Level 1 | Name and Social Security number search against national and county criminal databases. |
| Level 2 | Level 1 screening plus investigation into the candidate’s past employment and education history. |
| Level 3 | Level 2 screening plus review of the candidate’s credit history, motor vehicle record, and drug testing. |
Remember, when it comes to employment screening, thoroughness is key.
Sterling Background Checks for Tenants
Landlords have a responsibility to provide a safe environment for their tenants and ensure that they are renting to individuals who will pay rent on time and take care of the property. In order to make informed decisions, many landlords turn to background checks as a way to learn more about potential tenants. One of the most popular background check providers is Sterling, which offers different levels of checks to suit the needs of landlords.
Level 1 Check
- The Level 1 check offered by Sterling is a basic check that provides landlords with information about a tenant’s criminal history, including any misdemeanors or felonies. This check also includes a search for sex offender status.
- While this check is not as comprehensive as the other levels offered by Sterling, it can be useful for landlords who want to quickly screen tenants and rule out individuals who have a criminal history.
- It is important to note that this check only searches for criminal history in the state where the tenant currently resides. If the tenant has moved frequently, it may be necessary to conduct a more comprehensive search to obtain a full picture of their criminal history.
What the Level 1 Check Includes
The table below details the specific components of the Level 1 check that Sterling offers to landlords:
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Criminal History | Search for any misdemeanors or felonies in the state where the tenant currently resides. |
| Sex Offender Registry | Search for any sex offender status in the state where the tenant currently resides. |
If a landlord is unsure about what level of background check to conduct on a potential tenant, they should consult with Sterling’s customer support team to determine the best course of action. Ultimately, conducting a background check can help protect landlords and their rental properties.
Legal Implications of Sterling Background Checks
Sterling Background Checks are increasingly becoming a common practice in the recruitment process. However, there are legal implications that both employers and potential employees should be aware of. A level 1 check is a basic background screening that employers conduct on potential hires. Here’s what it means:
- A level 1 check is conducted using a single source or database.
- It does not involve any personal interviews or in-depth investigations of a person’s background.
- It is a basic check that includes criminal records, sex offender registries, and verification of education and employment history.
Although a level 1 check is relatively basic, it is still important for both employers and employees to understand its implications. For employers, conducting a level 1 check is crucial to ensure that they are not hiring someone with a history of criminal activity or those who have lied about their education or previous work experience. At the same time, potential employees should be aware of their rights and what is included in a level 1 check.
Some of the legal implications of Sterling Background Checks include:
- Privacy Concerns: Sterling must adhere to strict compliance laws such as the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). This act was put in place to protect the privacy of the individuals being screened, and failure to comply can result in potential lawsuits against the employer and the background check company.
- Discrimination Risk: Employers must be aware that using a background check to make employment decisions can potentially result in discrimination. For example, if a background check is used to disqualify a candidate based on their race, religion, or gender, this can be considered discriminatory.
- Accuracy: Sterling must ensure the accuracy of the information provided in their background checks. If inaccurate information is reported, it can have severe repercussions for both employer and employee. The FCRA requires that employers notify the candidate if adverse actions are taken based on information in their background check and provide them with a copy of their report.
| Legal Implication | Description |
|---|---|
| Privacy Concerns | Sterling must adhere to strict compliance laws such as the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). |
| Discrimination Risk | Using a background check to make employment decisions can potentially result in discrimination based on race, religion, gender, etc. |
| Accuracy | Sterling must ensure the accuracy of the information provided in their background checks or face potential legal repercussions. |
It is essential for employers and employees to understand the legal implications of Sterling Background Checks, especially at the level 1 check. Employers should ensure they remain compliant with applicable laws and regulations, while potential employees should continually monitor their background checks and understand their rights.
Accuracy of Sterling Background Checks
Sterling Background Checks is a reputable company that provides employment screening services to businesses and organizations. One of the most important aspects of these services is the accuracy of the background checks that they perform. Sterling has a strict quality control process that ensures the accuracy of the information that is provided to its clients. Here, we’ll be discussing the meaning of a Level 1 check:
- What is a Level 1 background check? A Level 1 background check is a basic employment screening that includes identity verification, employment history, and criminal record searches in the counties where the applicant has lived. It is the most common type of background check that is performed for entry-level positions.
| Screening Area | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Identity Verification | Social Security Number and Name Verification |
| Employment History Verification | Seven-year employment history |
| Criminal Records Search | County Criminal Records |
A Level 1 background check is not suitable for positions that require a higher level of trust, or those that involve access to sensitive information. In such cases, organizations may need to opt for Level 2 or 3 background checks that provide comprehensive information about an applicant’s criminal history and other areas that could impact the position they are being considered for.
Sterling’s expansive database and stringent screening process equip organizations with the information they need to make informed hiring decisions. Their commitment to providing accurate and current information is evident through their range of products tailored to meet the unique needs of each organization. Sterling background checks provide peace of mind to both employers and job applicants alike.
Dispute Resolution for Sterling Background Checks
If you are running a background check on a prospective employee or tenant, you may come across the term “Level 1” on a Sterling background check report. Level 1 indicates that the basic background check has been conducted, which includes criminal record searches, employment and education verifications, and reference checks. If nothing negative is found in the Level 1 check, it typically means that the individual is considered “clear” for employment or housing.
- However, if something negative is found in the Level 1 check, such as a criminal record or falsified information on the resume, it is important to follow the proper dispute resolution process to make sure that all information is accurate and up-to-date.
- Sterling has a dedicated Dispute Resolution team that can help with any discrepancies or errors found during a Level 1 background check. The team works with both the individual and the employer or landlord to resolve any disputes in a timely and professional manner.
- If the dispute cannot be resolved between the parties, Sterling may need to conduct further investigation to reconcile any discrepancies. This could involve additional interviews, document and record checks, or other methods of verification.
If you do find discrepancies or errors in a Level 1 background check report, it is important to act quickly and diligently to address any potential issues. Ignoring or delaying the dispute resolution process could lead to serious legal and financial consequences for both the individual and the employer or landlord.
Overall, the Level 1 background check is an important first step in the hiring or rental process, and should be followed by thorough due diligence and dispute resolution as needed to ensure that all parties are protected and informed.
If you are running a Sterling background check for your organization, it is imperative that you fully understand the dispute resolution process and communicate it clearly to all relevant parties involved.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Identify the discrepancy or error in the Level 1 background check report. |
| Step 2 | Contact Sterling’s Dispute Resolution team as soon as possible to report the issue. |
| Step 3 | Work with Sterling’s team to provide any additional information or documentation necessary to resolve the dispute. |
| Step 4 | Allow Sterling to conduct further investigation, if needed, to reconcile any discrepancies or errors in the report. |
| Step 5 | Follow up with the Dispute Resolution team to ensure that the issue has been resolved and all parties are satisfied. |
By following these steps and working closely with Sterling’s Dispute Resolution team, you can ensure that your organization is conducting fair and accurate Level 1 background checks, while minimizing the risk of legal or financial liability.
Timeframe and Cost of Sterling Background Checks
Sterling Background Checks is a leading provider of employment and background screening solutions that help employers make smarter hiring decisions. Sterling offers a variety of different packages that can be tailored to meet the needs of any organization, ranging from small businesses to global enterprises. One of the most commonly asked questions about Sterling’s services is what a Level 1 background check entails, and how long it takes to complete the process.
A Level 1 background check is a basic search that typically includes a criminal history check, employment verification and education verification. The cost of a Sterling Level 1 background check varies depending on the package selected, but generally ranges from $29 to $79 per check.
- Timeframe: A Level 1 background check with Sterling can typically be completed within 1 to 3 business days, depending on the complexity of the check and the availability of the required information. Sterling is committed to providing fast and accurate results, while also ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
In addition to Level 1 checks, Sterling offers a range of more comprehensive background screening packages that include additional searches such as a credit report or motor vehicle records check. These packages can take longer to complete and cost more than a Level 1 check, but may be necessary for positions that require a higher level of security clearance or have greater potential liability risks for the employer.
Overall, Sterling Background Checks offers a range of solutions that are designed to meet the unique needs and budgets of any organization. Whether you’re a small business owner looking to hire your first employee or a Fortune 500 company with a global workforce, Sterling has the experience and expertise to help you make smarter hiring decisions and protect your business from potential risks.
| Package | Description | Turnaround Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic | Criminal history check, employment verification, and education verification | 1-3 business days | $29-$79 |
| Standard | Basic package plus credit report, reference check, and driving record check | 3-5 business days | $99-$149 |
| Comprehensive | Standard package plus drug testing, social media screening, and international criminal checks | 5-7 business days | $199-$499 |
Preparing for Sterling Background Checks
Background checks are a common practice in the hiring process. A sterling background check is one of the most commonly used background checks today. Sterling background checks provide employers with a detailed report of an applicant’s history, including criminal records, employment history, and education records. It’s essential to understand what level 1 means on a sterling background check to be prepared for the hiring process.
- Get Organized: Before you apply for a job, it’s crucial to get organized. You will need to compile all the information that will be required for the background check, such as your employment history, education history, and residential history. Having all this information organized will make the process much smoother and ensure that you don’t miss any critical details.
- Be Honest: One of the most important aspects of preparing for a sterling background check is honesty. It’s essential to be completely truthful about your employment history, education, and any criminal records you may have. Failing to disclose information can lead to the loss of the job offer even after being qualified.
- Check Social Media Profiles: Employers often check social media profiles to gain insight into a candidate’s personality and character. Review your social media profiles and ensure all the information is consistent with your application. It would help if you also made sure that there is nothing on your social media accounts that could be damaging to your reputation.
Now let’s talk about what level 1 means on a sterling background check.
Level 1 on a sterling background check includes a criminal history check that covers seven years of history, including convictions, felonies, and misdemeanors. It also includes a social security number verification, address history, and a national sex offender public registry search.
| Criminal History | Social Security Number Verification | Address History | National Sex Offender Public Registry Search |
|---|---|---|---|
| Covers seven years of history | Verifies the applicant’s social security number is valid | Verifies the applicant’s address history | Searches the national registry for sex offenders |
Overall, the best way to prepare for a sterling background check is to stay organized, be honest, and thoroughly review your social media profiles before submitting the job application. Understanding what level 1 means on a sterling background check will also help you to be better prepared for the hiring process and ensure that you present yourself accurately.
FAQs on What Does Level 1 Mean on a Sterling Background Check
1. What is a level 1 background check?
Level 1 checks are preliminary screenings that use a basic database search to confirm that the applicant or employee doesn’t have any serious criminal records or sex offenses.
2. How long does a level 1 background check take?
Usually, level 1 checks can be completed within a few business days, depending on the screening provider and the volume of requests.
3. Can a level 1 background check detect all criminal records?
No, level 1 checks only include information from public databases, which may not be up to date or accurate. For a more comprehensive criminal background check, a level 2 or level 3 screening is recommended.
4. Who typically requests a level 1 background check?
Level 1 checks are often required by employers as part of their pre-employment or post-hire screening process, particularly for positions involving driving, childcare, or elderly care.
5. How is the information from a level 1 background check used?
The results of a level 1 check are used to determine whether an applicant or employee poses a potential risk to the organization or to other individuals. This information can be used to make hiring or retention decisions.
6. Can an individual request a level 1 background check on themselves?
Yes, an individual can request a level 1 screening from a background check provider, although there may be a fee involved.
7. Is it possible to fail a level 1 background check?
Technically, level 1 checks don’t have a pass/fail criteria, as they only provide information about an individual’s criminal history. However, if an applicant or employee has a record of serious criminal offenses or sex crimes, it may disqualify them from employment.
Closing:
Thanks for reading our FAQs on what does level 1 mean on a sterling background check. We hope this article provided you with helpful information about this type of screening process. If you have any further questions or concerns, feel free to contact us or check out our website for more resources. We appreciate your visit and hope to see you again soon.