Failed Your First Advantage Background Check? We Can Help

Last Updated:
August 26, 2023

Everyone makes mistakes, but sometimes those mistakes can come back to haunt us when trying to secure a job or rent an apartment. Background checks are a crucial part of many application processes, and failing one can put a damper on your plans. 

But don’t worry; at Fair Credit, we understand that life can be messy, and we’re here to help you get back on track. If you recently failed a First Advantage background check, learn how we can assist you in overcoming these types of challenges.

What Is First Advantage?

First Advantage is a leading provider of background checks and screening services for employers, landlords, and other organizations. They conduct a variety of checks, including criminal history, employment and education verification, credit reports, and more. 

Understanding how First Advantage operates is the first step in addressing any issues that may have caused you to fail a background check.

Why Do People Fail First Advantage Background Checks?

First Advantage uses smart analytics and covers a wide range of monitoring and screening solutions. Their comprehensive checks can lead to several reasons for someone to fail. Let’s explore some common reasons for failing a First Advantage background check:

Criminal History

A criminal record is often a primary reason for failing a First Advantage background check. A person’s criminal history can include minor offenses such as traffic violations or more severe ones like felonies. 

And depending on the nature of the offense and its relation to the job or housing situation, employers and landlords may be reluctant to hire or rent to such individuals.

Inaccurate Employment or Education Information

Discrepancies in your employment or education history can also cause you to fail a First Advantage background check. This could be due to innocent mistakes, such as a typo in your resume or application or inaccurate information provided by a previous employer or school. 

In some cases, intentional falsification of information, like fabricating work experience or claiming a degree you didn’t earn, can lead to failing a background check and may result in disqualification from the opportunity you’re pursuing.

Poor Credit History

Poor credit history can contribute to a failed First Advantage background check, particularly for positions that require financial responsibility or access to sensitive financial information. 

Employers and landlords may view a history of late payments, defaults, or bankruptcies as a sign of financial irresponsibility, which could make them hesitant to trust you with financial matters or rent you a property.

Mismatched Personal Information

Failing a First Advantage background check can also be a result of mismatched personal information. Mismatched personal information, such as Social Security number, name, or date of birth, may cause suspicion if it doesn’t match the records on file.

This can happen for various reasons, including clerical errors, identity theft, or even simple mistakes like transposed numbers. Ensuring that your personal information is accurate and up to date is essential for passing a First Advantage background check.

Drug Test Failures

Some employers require applicants to pass a drug test as part of the First Advantage background check process. If you fail a drug test, even for substances that are legal in certain states, it could result in a failed background check and disqualify you from a job opportunity.

Employment or Rental History Issues

A negative employment or rental history can also cause you to fail a First Advantage background check. Employers may be concerned about patterns of job-hopping, frequent terminations, or a history of evictions, as these can suggest instability or unreliability. 

It’s essential to address any concerns in your employment or rental history when applying for a job or rental property with a First Advantage background check.

Fighting Errors on Your First Advantage Background Check

If you’ve failed a First Advantage background check due to errors or inaccuracies, don’t lose hope. Fair Credit is here to help! Our team of experts is dedicated to assisting you in fighting errors on your background check, credit report, and tenant screenings. Here’s how we can help if you believe errors are the cause of your failing a First Advantage background check:

Reviewing Your First Advantage Background Check for Errors

Our first step is to thoroughly examine your First Advantage background check to identify any errors or inaccuracies. By pinpointing the specific issues, we can then work on addressing them and improving your chances of passing future background checks.

Disputing Errors with First Advantage

Once we’ve identified errors in your background check, we’ll assist you in disputing them with First Advantage. This process involves gathering documentation to support your claims, such as records, certificates, or other relevant evidence, and submitting it to First Advantage for review. If necessary, we’ll also help you escalate the dispute to ensure a fair resolution.

Credit Report Review and Disputes

In addition to First Advantage background checks, Fair Credit can help you review and dispute errors on your credit report. We’ll work with you to obtain a copy of your credit report, identify any errors, and submit disputes to the credit bureaus to have them corrected. 

This can help improve your credit score and increase your chances of passing future background checks that involve credit history.

Tenant Screening Assistance

If you’re struggling to find housing due to a failed tenant screening, Fair Credit can help. We’ll work with you to review your tenant screening report, identify any errors or inaccuracies, and assist in disputing them with the screening company. This can improve your chances of securing housing and prevent future issues with tenant screening reports.

Personalized Action Plan

At Fair Credit, we understand that each client’s situation is unique. We will develop a customized plan for you based on your unique needs and situation. Our team of specialists will take care of all the areas of concern efficiently and effectively.

Ongoing Support and Monitoring

At Fair Credit, we believe in providing ongoing support to our clients. We’ll continue to monitor your First Advantage background check, credit report, and tenant screening reports to ensure any errors are promptly addressed and resolved. 

We want to assist you in keeping your record accurate and current, which can improve your likelihood of passing future background checks and accessing the opportunities you are entitled to.

By partnering with Fair Credit, you can take control of your background check, credit report, and tenant screening issues and work towards a brighter future. Our team is here to provide the support and guidance you need to overcome challenges and move forward with confidence.

How Can You Ensure Future Background Checks Go Smoothly?

Ensuring that future background checks go smoothly is crucial for securing job opportunities, housing, and other important aspects of life. Here are some tips to help you prepare for and pass future background checks with ease:

Review Your Background Information

Regularly request and review your background check, credit report, and tenant screening reports to ensure all information is accurate and up-to-date. Correct any errors or inaccuracies as soon as you discover them.

Maintain Accurate Records

Keep records of your employment, education, and personal information, such as addresses and contact information. This will help you provide accurate information during background checks and make it easier to dispute any inaccuracies that may arise.

Stay on Top of Your Credit

Monitor your credit report regularly and promptly address any issues, such as late payments, collections, or identity theft. Maintaining a good credit score can improve your chances of passing background checks that involve credit history.

Be Honest and Upfront

When applying for a job or rental property, always provide accurate and truthful information. It is advisable to disclose any criminal history, employment gaps, or other concerning factors and offer an explanation rather than attempting to conceal or provide false information.

Address Potential Issues Proactively

Before applying for a job or rental property, it is important to address any potential issues that could result in a failed background check. This may involve working with a legal professional to resolve outstanding warrants or any other concerns.

If you have a poor rental history, consider providing references from previous landlords who can vouch for your responsibility as a tenant.

Stay Informed About Your Rights

Make sure you are familiar with both the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and the local laws pertaining to background checks. It’s important to know what information can be included in a background check and how to dispute any inaccuracies. Be aware of your rights in this process.

Build and Maintain a Positive Online Presence

Employers and landlords often search for applicants online as part of their screening process. Ensure your social media profiles and online presence reflect a professional and responsible image. Consider setting privacy settings on personal accounts and creating professional profiles on networking sites like LinkedIn.

Be Prepared for Drug Tests

If a drug test is part of the background check process, make sure you’re prepared. Abstain from using any illegal substances, and be aware of any medications or supplements you’re taking that could potentially cause a false positive result.

Following these tips and staying proactive about your background information will greatly improve your chances of passing future background checks and securing the opportunities you deserve.

Wrap Up

If you’ve failed a background check due to errors or inaccuracies, don’t hesitate to reach out to Fair Credit. Our team of experts is committed to helping you fight errors on your First Advantage background check. You can also rely on us if you encounter errors on your credit report or tenant screening. Get in touch with us today for expert assistance you can trust.

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