✨ Makeform is in Beta
Free AI Background Check Request Form Generator
Generate compliant background check request forms in seconds. Securely collect applicant data with AI-powered workflows.
Background Check Request Templates
Start with a Compliant Screening Authorization
Choose from HR-approved background check request templates and customize them to fit your screening policies.
Pre-Employment Screening Request
Standard authorization for criminal history, employment verification, and reference checks.
Most PopularTenant Background Check Form
Collect applicant consent for credit reports, eviction history, and rental references.
Volunteer Screening Authorization
Streamlined background investigation form for non-profit volunteers and youth workers.
Executive Background Investigation
Comprehensive screening request including financial history, education, and media checks.
What Is a Background Check Request Form?
The Foundation of Compliant Applicant Screening
A background check request form (or screening authorization) is a formal document used by employers, landlords, and volunteer organizations to obtain legal consent before investigating an individual's history. It captures essential personal identifiers like full name, previous addresses, and Social Security Number, while outlining the applicant's rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). Proper documentation protects your organization from negligent hiring claims and ensures compliance with local privacy laws. Pair this authorization with a church background check or appraisal request for a complete onboarding workflow.
How It Works
Generate Your Screening Authorization in 3 Steps
Describe your screening needs, customize the legal disclosures, and securely collect applicant consent in minutes.
Real-World Examples
Background Check Request Scenarios
See how HR teams and property managers use screening authorizations to securely collect applicant data.
An HR manager needs FCRA-compliant consent to run a criminal background and education verification on a final candidate.
This form includes mandatory FCRA disclosures and a digital signature field for legal compliance.
Screening Authorization Checklist
Essential Fields for Legal Compliance
When to Use a Background Check Request Form
Common Applicant Screening Scenarios
Pre-Employment Screening
PopularVerify candidate education, employment history, and criminal records before extending a final job offer.
Tenant & Lease Applications
Authorize credit checks, eviction history reports, and landlord references for prospective renters.
Volunteer Onboarding
Screen individuals working with vulnerable populations, such as youth groups, schools, or healthcare facilities.
Contractor Vetting
Ensure third-party vendors and independent contractors meet your organization's security and compliance standards.
Best Practices for Screening Requests
Ensure Compliance and Protect Applicant Data
Follow these legal and security best practices to create background check request forms that are compliant and secure.
Keep Disclosures Separate
The FCRA requires the background check disclosure to be a standalone document. Do not bury it within a lengthy employment application or contract.
Secure Sensitive Identifiers
Collecting SSNs and dates of birth requires strict security. Use encrypted form fields and restrict access to authorized HR personnel only.
Include State-Specific Notices
States like California and New York have strict background check laws. Ensure your form includes checkboxes for state-specific applicant rights.
Follow the "Ban the Box" Laws
Many jurisdictions prohibit asking about criminal history on initial applications. Only request background checks after a conditional offer is made.
Why HR Teams Choose Makeform
Built for Secure Applicant Data Collection
Everything you need to create, distribute, and manage background check request forms securely.
AI-Powered Form Generation
Describe your screening scenario and get a professional, compliance-ready authorization form in seconds.
End-to-End Encryption
Protect sensitive applicant data like SSNs and driver's license numbers with enterprise-grade encryption.
Legally Binding Signatures
Collect ESIGN-compliant digital signatures from applicants to authorize credit and criminal history checks.
Conditional Logic
Show state-specific legal disclosures only when an applicant selects a regulated state like California.
Role-Based Access Control
Ensure only authorized HR personnel and compliance officers can view submitted background check requests.
ATS Integrations
Automatically sync signed screening authorizations with your Applicant Tracking System or HR software.
How Makeform Compares
Background Check Request Form Solutions
See how Makeform stacks up against traditional methods for collecting applicant screening authorizations.
| Feature | Makeform | Jotform | Google Forms |
|---|---|---|---|
| AI Form Generation | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Professional Templates | ✅ | ✅ | Limited |
| Digital Signatures | ✅ | Paid | ❌ |
| Conditional Logic | ✅ | ✅ | Limited |
| Mobile Optimized | ✅ | ✅ | Basic |
| Free Plan | ✅ | Limited | ✅ |
| Multi-Language | 13 languages | Limited | Manual |
| Custom Branding | ✅ | Paid | Limited |
Makeform is the only platform that combines AI-powered form generation with enterprise-grade encryption and digital signatures—ensuring FCRA compliance without expensive HR software.
Frequently Asked Questions
Background Check Request Form FAQ
Common questions about screening authorizations, FCRA compliance, and applicant data security.
Ready to Secure Applicant Consent?
Create Your Screening Authorization in Seconds
No credit card required. Generate a compliant, secure background check request form with AI and start collecting applicant data safely.