Failed Your Sterling Background Check? We Can Help

Last Updated:
October 2, 2023

You’ve put in the time and effort to pursue your aspirations, whether it’s landing your dream job or finding the perfect place to call home. But just when you think you’re about to cross the finish line, a failed background check creates an unexpected hurdle. It’s a disheartening setback, but don’t worry – Fair Credit is here to help.

Our mission is to assist individuals in fighting errors on credit reports, background checks, and tenant screenings. If you failed a Sterling background check, find out how we can help.

What Is Sterling?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, it’s important to understand what Sterling is and how it plays a role in your background check process.

Sterling: A Global Background Screening Company

Sterling is a leading global provider of background screening and identity services. Conducting more than 110 million background checks every year, Sterling works with employers, property managers, and other entities to ensure that they make the best decisions for their organization. 

With nearly 50 years of experience, Sterling has established a reputation for providing comprehensive and reliable background check services.

Now that we know what Sterling is, let’s take a closer look at its background check process and why it’s so important for employers and property managers.

The Sterling Background Check Process

Understanding the background check process can help you better grasp the importance of ensuring your information is accurate and complete. Sterling’s comprehensive approach covers various aspects of your background, providing a detailed picture to employers and property managers.

Types of Background Checks

Sterling offers a variety of background check services, each tailored to the specific needs of the employer or property manager. This ensures they have all the information necessary to make informed decisions. Some of the main types of checks conducted by Sterling include:

  • Criminal Background Checks

This type of check reviews an individual’s criminal history, looking for any past convictions, arrests, or other criminal records. This information is crucial for employers and property managers to assess potential risks associated with hiring or renting to an individual.

  • Credit Reports

A credit report provides information on an individual’s financial history, including credit accounts, outstanding debts, and payment history. Employers and property managers may use this information to assess an individual’s financial responsibility and stability.

  • Employment and Education Verifications

These checks confirm the accuracy of claimed employment and education history. This includes verifying past employment positions, dates of employment, job titles, and educational degrees or certifications. This information helps employers and property managers evaluate an applicant’s qualifications and experience.

  • Drug Testing

Some employers or property managers may require drug testing as part of the background check process. This can help them ensure a safe and productive environment by identifying individuals who may be using prohibited substances.

  • Professional License and Certification Checks

For certain positions, it’s essential to verify that an individual holds the necessary professional licenses or certifications. Sterling can confirm the validity of these credentials, ensuring that applicants meet the required qualifications for specific roles.

  • Motor Vehicle Records

For positions that involve driving or operating vehicles, checking an applicant’s motor vehicle records can be essential. This includes verifying the individual’s driver’s license status and reviewing any history of accidents or violations.

  • International Background Checks

For applicants who have lived, worked, or studied abroad, Sterling can conduct international background checks to ensure a comprehensive assessment of an individual’s history.

Given the breadth of information that can be included in a Sterling background check, it’s vital to ensure that your records are accurate and complete. Errors or inaccuracies in any aspect of your background check can lead to misunderstandings or even disqualification from job or housing opportunities.

Why Do Background Check Errors Happen? Can They Be Fixed?

Errors in background checks can have severe consequences, such as hindering employment or housing opportunities. However, by understanding how these errors occur, you can take proactive steps to ensure your information is accurate and up-to-date.

Common Causes of Errors

There are several reasons why errors can occur in background checks, and being aware of these common causes can help you stay vigilant and maintain accurate records.

  • Outdated Information: Sometimes, background check databases may not have the most recent updates, resulting in outdated information on your report. This could include incorrect addresses, outdated employment history, or even expunged criminal records.
  • Misattributed Records: In some cases, your report might include information that belongs to someone else with a similar name or other identifying information. This can lead to false information being associated with your background check, creating confusion and potential issues when applying for a job or housing.
  • Data Entry Mistakes: Human error can also play a role in background check inaccuracies. Data entry mistakes, such as incorrect dates or misspelled names, can lead to false information appearing on your report.
  • Identity Theft: If you’ve been a victim of identity theft, your personal information may have been used fraudulently, leading to a tarnished background check.

Fixing Errors in Your Background Check

The good news is that background check errors can be fixed. By regularly reviewing your background check information and staying aware of potential inaccuracies, you can take steps to correct any errors before they negatively impact your life. 

Here are some strategies for addressing and fixing errors in your background check:

  • Obtain a copy of your background check

The first step in fixing errors is to know what’s on your report. Request a copy of your background check from the company that conducted it, such as Sterling.

  • Review your report for inaccuracies

Carefully review your report to identify any errors or discrepancies. Be thorough and make a note of any issues you find.

  • Gather supporting documentation

Collect any relevant documents that can help prove the inaccuracies in your report. This could include court documents, identification records, or employment verification letters.

  • File a dispute with the background check company

Contact the company that conducted your background check and provide them with the necessary documentation to dispute the errors in your report. They are legally obligated to investigate and correct any inaccuracies.

  • Monitor the dispute process

Stay in touch with the background check company to ensure they’re actively working on your dispute and that any errors are resolved in a timely manner.

By understanding the common causes of background check errors and taking action to fix them, you can protect your reputation and avoid unnecessary complications when applying for jobs or housing. 

Of course, it’s not always a straightforward endeavor trying to resolve background check errors. If you’re finding that’s the case in your situation, it’s time to leave it to the professionals. With the support of Fair Credit, you can have the guidance and expertise needed to navigate the dispute process and ensure your background check is correct.

How Fair Credit Can Help

At Fair Credit, we understand the frustration and disappointment that comes with failing a background check due to errors or inaccuracies. That’s why we’re dedicated to helping you fight these issues on your report, getting your life back on track, and allowing you to pursue your goals without setbacks.

Free Consultation and Comprehensive Review

The first step in addressing errors in your background check is to have a clear understanding of what’s on your report. We offer a free consultation and thorough review of your Sterling background check. 

Our team of experts will analyze your report, helping you identify any inaccuracies or inconsistencies that may be affecting your employment or housing opportunities. We’ll also provide guidance on the most effective ways to address these issues.

Customized Action Plan

Once we’ve identified errors in your report, we will work with you to develop a customized action plan tailored to your specific needs. This plan will outline the necessary steps to dispute and correct the inaccuracies in your report, ensuring a comprehensive approach to resolving your issues.

Dispute and Correction Assistance

Our team of experts will guide you through the dispute process, from gathering necessary documentation to communicating with Sterling on your behalf. We’ll work tirelessly to ensure that any inaccuracies in your report are corrected as quickly as possible, so you can move forward with confidence. 

What’s more, our team will keep you informed of the progress throughout the process, providing you with updates and support as needed.

Continued Support and Monitoring

Our assistance doesn’t end once your errors have been resolved. At Fair Credit, we believe in providing ongoing support to our clients to help prevent future issues and ensure your records remain accurate.

Regular Background Check Reviews and Updates

To minimize the chances of encountering future issues with your background checks, we’ll help you monitor your records and conduct regular reviews. By staying proactive, we can ensure that any new errors or inaccuracies are caught and addressed promptly, preventing them from causing further disruptions in your life.

Expert Advice and Guidance

As a Fair Credit client, you’ll have access to our team of experts for ongoing advice and guidance. Whether you have questions about your background check, need help understanding your rights, or require assistance with any future disputes, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

By choosing Fair Credit, you can trust that we’ll be by your side throughout the entire process, from identifying errors in your report to ensuring they’re corrected and maintaining the accuracy of your records. 

Wrap Up

Don’t let a failed Sterling background check hold you back. Our team at Fair Credit is here to help you fight errors, correct inaccuracies, and get your life back on track. With our expertise in resolving errors and disputes, you can confidently pursue your employment and housing goals. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you!

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