Navigating Background Checks: Understanding Amazon’s Process and Your Rights

Are you frustrated after Amazon requested a background check that went back 11 years, when you only applied for a role that required a 7-year check? This article aims to clarify the background check process, address potential reasons why you might not have been hired, and provide steps to take if you feel something was amiss.

Understanding Background Checks

Amazon, like many other employers, conducts background checks as part of their hiring process to ensure they hire individuals who are reliable and fit the job profile. These background checks typically cover a specific timeframe, often 7 years, to assess candidates’ past actions and records. However, the exact timeframe and what is considered relevant can vary depending on jurisdiction and company policy.

Timeframe of Background Checks

Many employers rely on background checks that go back 7 years. This is because recent convictions are generally more relevant to current behavior and suitability for the position. Some states or countries might extend this timeframe, but it is not uncommon for background checks to default to the 7-year limit. For example, if you provided a 2016 conviction on an application where the employer requested a 7-year check, they would have the right to conduct a check up to 2023, not 2034.

Disclosure Requirements

When filling out the application form, you likely signed a consent form allowing the employer to conduct a background check. The form typically included questions about convictions within a specific timeframe, often 7 years. If you had charges or convictions older than 7 years, like your 11-year-old charges, you might not have been required to disclose them. Employers are generally only concerned with convictions that are recent enough to be relevant to your current behavior and fit for the job.

Why You Were Not Hired

Relevance of Charges

Employers often assess the relevance of past convictions to the job you applied for. If your past charges are serious or relate to the position in question, they can significantly impact your hiring eligibility, even if the convictions are outside the 7-year window. In your case, the 11-year-old charges may have raised concerns for the hiring team about your reliability or suitability for the job.

Background Check Results

The 11-year-old charges might have provided grounds for hesitation on the part of the hiring team. While it is understandable that you feel the charges would not affect your suitability if you were older, employers are required to consider all aspects of your background, including older charges.

The background check, which Amazon sent to you, indicates the timeframe and details of your charges. If you feel this information is inaccurate or if you have concerns about how it was processed, you should review the details carefully.

Steps to Consider

Request Clarification

If you believe there could be a misunderstanding or if you require more details about why you were not hired, it is advisable to reach out to the hiring manager or HR department. Ask for a detailed explanation of the hiring decision and whether any of the charges from 11 years ago influenced their decision.

Review Your Rights

The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) ensures that you have the right to be informed if an employer uses a background check against you, and it requires them to provide you with a copy of the report. Review the FCRA and ensure that you received all necessary notifications and documentation.

Consider Legal Advice

If you feel that there was a mishandling of your background check or if you believe you were discriminated against based on old charges, consider consulting with a legal professional specializing in employment law. They can help you understand your rights and options.

Look for Other Opportunities

While this situation is disappointing, it is important to continue looking for other job opportunities where your skills and experience align more closely with the requirements. This can help you find a job where your past charges are not a concern.

Conclusion

Navigating background checks, especially when dealing with past charges, can be complex. Understanding your rights and the employer’s perspective can help you address this situation more effectively. By taking the steps mentioned above, you can protect yourself and make informed decisions about your job search.