Background checks for jobs get harder

If you receive a new job offer, do not jump for joy too quickly! A thorough background check has to be passed first, and it's getting harder to pass one unless you are drug-free and can supply all the information requested by verifications specialists.



Here are some of the things required in a background check:

• drug screen
• credit check
• fingerprinting
• W-2's for last five years
• copy of most recent pay stub
• copy of GED, high school diploma, or college diploma

Even some human resources specialists are puzzled by the new requirements given by some pre-employment screeners.  "In my experience with background checks, I have not seen such requests," said Attorney Jose De La Cruz. He recommends notifying the employing company before giving any financial information.

"That's fricking crazy," said Mary Billings, a college guidance counselor. "The hoops to happiness have expanded beyond measure. That is sickening," she said. Billings concluded that all wage earners should keep five years of tax returns handy when applying for a job.

©2012 Tomi Johnson. All rights reserved. 
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