Criminal Background
Check Services

Types of Criminal Searches

No single source contains every criminal record in the United States, so a strong criminal background check combines searches. Each search type has its own page with details:

• National Criminal Database search: broad multi-source search, including a Sex Offender registry search; usually returns in minutes.
• County criminal searches: records pulled directly from the county courts where the applicant has lived.
• State criminal searches: statewide repositories and state databases; state database searches usually return in minutes.
• Federal criminal searches: U.S. District Court cases, included in every standard package.
• Global Security Watch List: OFAC and international watch lists; usually returns in minutes.
• SSN Trace and Address History: shows where the applicant has lived so the right jurisdictions are searched.

Building the Right Criminal Package

The National Criminal Database search is usually SaffHire's minimum package. It includes an SSN Trace, Sex Offender registry search, Global Security Watch List and the national database search. Because national databases are aggregated and incomplete, many employers add County searches for the counties where the applicant has lived, and State searches where useful. Standard Packages 1-3 average 1 day, and Package 4 (adds County Search) averages 1-2 days. Court access fees may apply to State and County searches; these are pass-through fees.

Using Criminal Records Fairly and Legally

Before ordering, the employer gives the applicant a standalone written disclosure and gets written authorization; SaffHire's invitation workflow collects both electronically. Employers remain responsible for their own hiring decisions and legal compliance.

Some states and cities limit when you can ask about criminal history or which records you can consider. EEOC guidance encourages an individualized assessment that considers the nature of the offense, the time that has passed, and the nature of the job.