A Level 2 background check is a comprehensive investigation into an individual's criminal history, credit report, and public records, typically required for positions involving vulnerable populations or sensitive information. It can take anywhere from three days to two weeks to complete and costs between $40 to $100, requiring written consent from the applicant. These checks help employers make informed hiring decisions and protect their organizations from potential risks associated with employees.

1. What is a level 2 background check?
what is level 2 background check? A level 2 background check is an in-depth
investigation of an individual’s criminal history, credit report and other relevant public
records. Level 2 background checks are typically conducted for job applicants who will
be working with vulnerable populations such as children or the elderly. They are also
required for certain roles within government agencies or organizations that handle
sensitive information.
The level 2 background check includes all the elements of a basic background check,
such as criminal background check records, driving records and credit checks. It may
also include additional information such as Social Security Verification, Department of
Homeland Security searches and more.

2. Level 2 background checks are conducted by third-party companies that specialize in
background investigations. They are regulated by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)
to ensure accuracy and privacy. The results of a level 2 background check must be
reported to the applicant, and they have the right to contest any inaccurate information
that has been found.
For employers, level 2 background checks help protect their organization from potential
risks associated with certain types of employees. The results also provide valuable
insight into a potential employee’s character and qualifications, which can help ensure
they are the right fit for the organization.
Overall, level 2 background checks are an important tool that employers use to gain
more information about an individual before making a hiring decision. They can help
protect organizations from risks while also providing a more complete picture of an
applicant’s background.
By conducting a level 2 background check, employers can ensure they are making
informed decisions and hiring the right person for the job.
What Is Included in a Level 2 Background Check?
A level 2 background check includes a detailed review of an individual’s past. This can
include criminal records, credit reports, driving history, employment history, education
and credentials verification. Depending on the nature of the position being applied for,
other information may be included as well. For example, a background check for a
nursing role may include the results of a health exam. A background check for a
government job may include additional security clearance checks.
The depth of the background check depends on the employer’s requirements. Many
employers opt to conduct full level 2 background checks to ensure they have as much
information available before making a hiring process decision. This helps them make
informed choices and reduce potential risks associated with certain types of
employees.
Overall, a level 2 background check is an important tool used by employers to gain
insight into an individual’s past before hiring them. It allows employers to identify any
potential risks associated with the candidate and make better decisions when it comes
to selecting new employees.

3. When Is a Level 2 Background Check Used?
Level 2 background checks are typically used when an employer wants to ensure they
are hiring trustworthy individuals who will not put vulnerable populations at risk. These
types of background checks are often required in roles involving education, childcare,
health care and financial services. Level 2 background checks may also be used in
positions where an employee will have access to sensitive information or when
handling transactions with large sums of money.
Furthermore, certain positions within government agencies or organizations may
require a level 2 background check. These positions often have access to confidential
and sensitive information, making it important that employers can trust their employees
with the task at hand.
Overall, level 2 background checks are used in situations where employers need
additional insight into a potential employee’s past. They help employers make informed

4. decisions when it comes to hiring and protect their organizations from any potential
risks.
What Are the Benefits of a Level 2 Background Check?
The primary benefit of a level 2 background check is that it can help employers make
informed hiring decisions. These checks can uncover any inconsistencies with an
individual’s application and reveal any criminal history that could raise questions about
the applicant’s trustworthiness. This information can help employers make better
decisions when it comes to protecting their organization and its vulnerable populations.
In addition, level 2 background checks can provide employers with a more
comprehensive picture of an applicant’s character and qualifications. This can help
ensure that the right person is hired for the job and that they are the best fit for the
organization.
How Long Does a Level 2 Background Check Take?
The length of a level 2 background check depends on several factors, such as the type
of information requested and the complexity of the investigation. Generally speaking,
these types of checks take anywhere from three days to two weeks to complete.
What Is the Cost of a Level 2 Background Check?
The cost of a level 2 background check varies depending on the services requested.
Typically, employers pay anywhere from $40 to $100 per check.
Do Employers Need to Notify Applicants Before
Conducting a Level 2 Background Check?
Yes, employers must obtain written consent from applicants before they can conduct a
level 2 background check. This is done via an authorization form, which the applicant
must sign in order to give permission for the background check to be conducted.
Overall, a level 2 background check is an important tool used by employers to gain
insight into an individual’s past before hiring them. It helps employers make informed
decisions and protect their organizations from any potential risks associated with
certain types of employees. The length of these checks can take anywhere from three
days to two weeks, and the cost varies depending on the services requested. Employers

5. must also obtain written consent from applicants before they can conduct a level 2
background check. Knowing the ins and outs of a level 2 background check will help
employers make sure they are making well-informed decisions when it comes to hiring
new employees.
What Are the Potential Challenges of Level 2 Background
Checks?
One of the biggest challenges with level 2 background checks is that they can take a
long time to complete. The results may also not be available until weeks after an
applicant has been hired. Additionally, the results may not be as comprehensive as
desired since some information can be difficult to obtain.
Are There Alternatives to Level 2 Background Checks?
Yes, employers have the option of conducting basic background checks or opting for
third-party services that provide more detailed and timely reports. However, these
processes may lack the comprehensive review of a level 2 background check.

6. Conclusion
Level 2 background checks are an important tool for employers who need to protect
vulnerable populations in their organization. These checks offer a more thorough review
than basic background checks and can help employers make informed hiring decisions.
Although level 2 background checks may take longer to complete, they provide
employers with the peace of mind that they are hiring trustworthy individuals.
For more information on level 2 background checks, contact your trusted screening
provider today. They can provide you with tailored advice and guidance to ensure that
your organization is making the best decisions for its safety and security.